Cases of measles have decreased in Rochdale

Measles

The recently published measles case data has shown only one case of measles being reported in Rochdale in 2013. This has decreased from the three cases which were reported in 2012.

The number of reported cases of measles across Greater Manchester as a whole has started to fall following MMR vaccinations sessions in secondary schools.

Across England as a whole, cases declined in May with 188 confirmed cases compared to 299 for April. 10-14 year olds continue to be the age group most affected.

Preliminary figures released today by Public Health England (PHE) estimate that around 56,000 previously unvaccinated 10-16 year olds in England have received a first dose of vaccine in the catch-up programme, and around the same number of partially vaccinated children have also received an extra dose of MMR.

PHE estimates that around 120,000 extra 10-16 year olds need to have their first MMR doses to reach 95 per cent uptake of the first dose – these are the ‘priority’ group who do not have any protection against measles, mumps or rubella. The 56,000 who have so far received a first dose suggests we are almost halfway toward this aim.

A detailed study on exactly who was unvaccinated, who has had one dose and who has had two doses is underway and is expected to be completed in the autumn.

Across the country, 95 per cent of GP practices have ordered extra vaccine and more than 200,000 extra doses of MMR vaccine have been delivered. To ensure as many children are vaccinated as possible, the need for a school based programme is being actively considered for the next academic year.

Dr Rosemary McCann, Health Protection lead at the Greater Manchester PHE Centre, said: “Measles is a highly infectious and unpleasant disease that can lead to very serious complications. Children who have not had the MMR vaccine are at high risk of catching the disease.

“Thanks to the hard work of local health teams we are making good progress towards the 95% target, but there still remains a large number of 10-16 year olds, together with many younger children and adults who are under-vaccinated. The programme will continue until we reach as many children as possible in the age groups most affected.

“If your child has not had the MMR vaccine, the upcoming summer holidays is a good time to contact your GP to get them vaccinated.”