Wirral measles outbreak prompts Summer MMR call

  • Cases of measles in Wirral continue to rise

  • Unimmunised children and young adults are at risk, particularly if travelling to parts of Europe where there are large ongoing measles outbreaks, or to other countries where measles vaccination coverage is low and measles is endemic

  • Teenagers and young adults should also be fully vaccinated before travelling and attending festivals and other summer events

Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, so anyone with symptoms is also being advised to stay at home and phone their GP or NHS 111 for advice, rather than visiting the surgery or A&E, to prevent the illness spreading further. It is possible for anyone at any age to get measles and the illness can be more severe in teenagers and adults than in young children.

As the summer months bring increased travel and public gatherings, PHE is warning that the figure could rise even further and are working with Wirral Council and the NHS to make sure anyone who needs an MMR vaccine is aware.

Check your child’s Red Book to see if they’ve received two MMR vaccinations as scheduled, or check with your GP surgery if you’re unsure. Your GP surgery can arrange for vaccination if needed.

 

 

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