Measles cases 'almost double'

There have been almost twice the number of measles cases in England and Wales in the first six months of this year compared with the same period last year, official figures show.

The figure had risen from 497 to 964, the Health Protection Agency said.

There are currently significant measles outbreaks in Merseyside and Sussex.

The agency is urging parents to ensure children are up to date with their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations before the school begins.

Measles can cause serious illness and can, in some cases, be fatal.

Complications can include meningitis and encephalitis - inflammation of the lining of the brain. Rarer disorders of the eye, heart and nervous system can also develop.

Rubella, known as German measles, has also increased, with 57 cases reported between January and June in England and Wales - more than the annual totals for each of the previous nine years.

Most cases are linked to travel to other European countries.

It is usually a mild infection. But if a woman becomes infected in early pregnancy, it can cause birth defects.

Latest data on immunisations across England shows uptake rates of 93% for the first MMR jab and 87% for the second.

In Wales, the figures are 92% and 87%.

The first dose of the MMR vaccine should ideally be given to children between 12 to 13 months of age.

They are given the second dose before they start school, usually between three and five years of age, although it can be given three months after the first.

The HPA is advising parents to check with their GP to see if their child has had both doses of MMR.