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09/01/2009
'Unprecedented' Rise In Measles Cases
A resurgence of measles in Britain has been highlighted by new figures released today.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) showed there were 1,217 cases from January to November 2008 in England and Wales.
A slump in vaccination has been blamed on unfounded fears about side effects of the MMR jab for measles, mumps and rubella.
In October, 72 cases were reported and the figure for September was 83.
Year-on-year, the number of people suffering from measles is on the rise, with 990 cases reported in the whole of 2007.
Three quarters of the 115 cases diagnosed in November were reported in the West Midlands, North West and South East.
Most of these cases are linked with outbreaks in nurseries, primary and secondary schools and there have been outbreaks in traveller communities in the West Midlands and South East.
The HPA's Dr Mary Ramsay said the MMR uptake over the past decade was "relatively low".
She added: "We are still experiencing an unprecedented increase in measles cases across England and Wales."
"The Agency is concerned that we may see measles epidemics take hold. We again are urging parents to get their children vaccinated. Although MMR coverage is starting to improve, we cannot stress enough that measles is serious and in some cases it can be fatal. Delaying immunisation puts children at risk."
The HPA says too few children are receiving both doses of the combined measles, mumps and rubella jab. Sixty per cent of cases were seen in children aged under 15.
Dr Ramsay warned: "Measles is a very serious infection as it can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis, even in healthy children. It is highly infectious and can be passed on without direct contact before the rash appears.
"This is why it's incredibly important to continue to remind parents about the benefits of having their children vaccinated with two doses of MMR for optimum protection. It is never too late to get vaccinated."
(JM)(BMcC)
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) showed there were 1,217 cases from January to November 2008 in England and Wales.
A slump in vaccination has been blamed on unfounded fears about side effects of the MMR jab for measles, mumps and rubella.
In October, 72 cases were reported and the figure for September was 83.
Year-on-year, the number of people suffering from measles is on the rise, with 990 cases reported in the whole of 2007.
Three quarters of the 115 cases diagnosed in November were reported in the West Midlands, North West and South East.
Most of these cases are linked with outbreaks in nurseries, primary and secondary schools and there have been outbreaks in traveller communities in the West Midlands and South East.
The HPA's Dr Mary Ramsay said the MMR uptake over the past decade was "relatively low".
She added: "We are still experiencing an unprecedented increase in measles cases across England and Wales."
"The Agency is concerned that we may see measles epidemics take hold. We again are urging parents to get their children vaccinated. Although MMR coverage is starting to improve, we cannot stress enough that measles is serious and in some cases it can be fatal. Delaying immunisation puts children at risk."
The HPA says too few children are receiving both doses of the combined measles, mumps and rubella jab. Sixty per cent of cases were seen in children aged under 15.
Dr Ramsay warned: "Measles is a very serious infection as it can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis, even in healthy children. It is highly infectious and can be passed on without direct contact before the rash appears.
"This is why it's incredibly important to continue to remind parents about the benefits of having their children vaccinated with two doses of MMR for optimum protection. It is never too late to get vaccinated."
(JM)(BMcC)
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Fears of a measles epidemic have prompted the government to renew their efforts to ensure children up to the age of 18 have the MMR jab. The Department of Health (DoH) has asked primary care trusts (PCTs) to offer the jab to all who are not already fully protected.
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Government Launches Measles Awareness Campaign
A measles awareness campaign has been launched by the Government. It has warned that measles vaccination rates are still far lower than levels needed to protect the population. This is despite the finding of a new Department of Health survey that over 90% of parents are aware that it is the best way to protect their child.
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A measles awareness campaign has been launched by the Government. It has warned that measles vaccination rates are still far lower than levels needed to protect the population. This is despite the finding of a new Department of Health survey that over 90% of parents are aware that it is the best way to protect their child.
16 April 2013
Swansea Measles Outbreak 'Could Continue For Weeks'
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Swansea Measles Outbreak 'Could Continue For Weeks'
As health officials warn that the outbreak could continue for weeks, the number of measles cases in Swansea has now reached 765. The total has increased by another 72 cases since last Thursday, with 77 people being hospitalised since the start of the outbreak in November.
09 April 2013
Swansea Measles Outbreak At Over 600 Cases
A measles outbreak in Swansea has reached 620 cases, as health officials warn there is no sign of the epidemic coming to an end. Latest figures show around 15 to 20 new cases being reported every day, and an increase of 32 cases last Friday alone.
Swansea Measles Outbreak At Over 600 Cases
A measles outbreak in Swansea has reached 620 cases, as health officials warn there is no sign of the epidemic coming to an end. Latest figures show around 15 to 20 new cases being reported every day, and an increase of 32 cases last Friday alone.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
