Parents urged to vaccinate children as North West measles outbreak continues

Parents urged to vaccinate children as North West measles outbreak continues

Parents across the region are being urged to vaccinate their children against measles with reported cases in the North West soaring.

Last year saw 111 confirmed cases of measles in Greater Manchester compared to just 21 in 2011, as the North West accounted for nearly half of all reported cases in England and Wales.

There have been more than 25 cases already reported in Greater Manchester since the start on this year too, and the Health Protection Authority has called on parents to protect their children.

Hugh Lamont, regional communications manager for HPA North West, said: “No one should dismiss measles lightly.

“It’s rare these days, but people die from measles. Don’t take a chance with your health and also think of others, particularly vulnerable babies.”

He added: “The clear message from us is that people need to be vaccinated.”

There were 865 confirmed cases of measles in the North West in 2012, including a total of 235 in November and December.

In 2007 a 13-year-old boy in Rochdale became the first person to die from measles in 14 years, highlighting the possible dangers of the disease

Dr Mary Ramsay, HPA head of immunisation said: “Measles is a highly infectious disease so the only way to prevent outbreaks is to ensure a good uptake of the MMR vaccine.”

The MMR vaccine, protecting against measles, mumps and rubella (German measles) is administered in two doses usually just after a child’s first birthday and then just before starting school.

Parents with children of the appropriate age are urged to arrange for the injections to be administered, while those who have not been vaccinated should speak to their GP.

Symptoms of measles include a fever, cough, red and painful eyes, swollen glands, loss of appetite and a rash which tends to develop three to four days later.

Complications can arise including ear infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, convulsions and diarrhoea.