Last updated 15:59, Wednesday, 02 July 2008

COPELAND parents are being urged to check that their children have been immunised against measles following reports that the number of cases of the disease is on the rise.

Across the North West the uptake of MMR vaccination is below the rate which is needed for immunity on a community level. Consequently there is a risk of further measles cases.

Prof John Ashton, director of Public Health for Cumbria Primary Care Trust, said: “We can make a link between the rise in cases and a fall or low uptake of the MMR vaccination which really underlines the importance of the MMR vaccination in protecting our children.

“We need to make sure that our children have the protection they need and the MMR vaccination is the best defence against this very contagious disease.”

The MMR vaccine is given in two doses, one at age two and another by age five. Ideally children should have had both doses of the MMR vaccination by age five but health experts are stressing that it is never too late to immunise a child or young person who missed out earlier in life.

Dr Nigel Calvert, consultant in Communicable Disease Control, said: “I really do recommend that all young people up to age 25 check that they have had both doses and think seriously about having an MMR jab if they were not protected against measles, mumps and rubella as youngsters. I would strongly advise anyone with concerns to consult their family doctor.

“An outbreak can happen anywhere and although uptake of both doses of MMR across Cumbria is higher than in many parts of the country, it is lower than we would like.

“Measles can be a very serious illness and in rare circumstances it can kill or cause complications such as meningitis and encephalitis,’’ Dr Calvert said.

“MMR is safe, proven and effective and we know that two doses will ensure long-term protection against measles, mumps and rubella.”