MMR jab warning to parents in Telford & Wrekin
Parents and carers in the Telford and Wrekin area were today reminded to ensure their children are protected against measles following an increase in cases across the country.
Over 940 cases have been reported in South Wales with another 587 confirmed in England, and even though the borough has a higher level of MMR immunisation than the national average parents should ensure they get any unvaccinated children to their local GP as soon as possible.
Telford & Wrekin Council's public health team is working with local GPs, Public Health England to monitor the situation and promote access to the MMR vaccine.
Dr Michael Innes, Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group's clinical chairman, said: "I would urge parents not to underestimate the seriousness of measles and to ensure their children are protected. Having seen many cases whilst working abroad, I can vouch for the fact that measles can be very unpleasant and in serious cases can be fatal."
Vaccines are normally given at the age of 13 months and between three and five years but children, young teenagers and young adults can be vaccinated at any age. Figures from Public Health England showed in 2012 there were five reported cases of measles in the borough with no cases reported so far this year.
Dr Catherine Woodward, Telford and Wrekin Council's assistant director of public health, said: "Measles is a highly infectious and potentially extremely serious condition, so I really welcome the national catch-up programme which has now been put in place."
If parents are unsure their children are up to date with vaccinations they should check in their child health record book.
A nationwide programme has been launched by the government costing £20 million.
