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Measles warning as kids go back to school7 September 2007
Parents are being warned about the dangers of measles to children who have not had the MMR vaccine before returning to school this month. Recent reports by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) show that the number of children with measles in the UK has nearly tripled over the summer. So far this year, there have been 480 confirmed cases of measles - 344 of which were reported between June and August alone. This is alarming because the figures are increasing at a higher rate than expected for this time of year. Also, last year saw the highest number of measles cases ever since records began in 1995 and it's becoming more likely that this number will be even higher in 2007. Most children receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine at 13 months, but fewer are returning for their second dose which is usually given between three to five years as a pre-school booster. It's vital that the second booster dose is given, as after one dose of the MMR five to 10 percent of children will not be protected against the diseases, but after the second dose less than one percent are left unprotected. Dr Mary Ramsay, a consultant epidemiologist with the HPA, believes it's crucial that children are fully immunised with two doses of MMR before they return to school. "Measles is a highly infectious and dangerous illness, and as there is increased close contact in schools, it can be spread easily. Now is the time parents will be buying their children a new school uniform to prepare for the school year ahead, but being prepared to avoid infection is even more important. Parents should think about adding the MMR vaccine to their back to school 'to do' list." "It's also important to remember it is never too late to get vaccinated," added Dr Ramsay. Back to the latest health news
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