Measles cases hit 18-year high in England and Wales

[xchrom]

http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2013/feb/08/measles-cases-high-england-wales


A child is vaccinated against measles with an MMR injection. Photograph: Alamy

***SNIP

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at the HPA, said: "Coverage of MMR is now at historically high levels but measles is highly infectious and can spread easily among communities that are poorly vaccinated, and can affect anyone who is susceptible, including toddlers in whom vaccination has been delayed.

"Older children who were not vaccinated at the routine age, who may now be teenagers, are at particular risk of becoming exposed, while at school for example.

"Measles continues to circulate in several European countries that are popular with holidaymakers. Measles is a highly infectious disease, so the only way to prevent outbreaks is to make sure the UK has good uptake of the MMR vaccine, and that when cases are reported, immediate public health action is taken to target unvaccinated individuals in the vicinity as soon as possible.

"Measles is often associated with being a disease of the past and, as a result, people may be unaware that it is a dangerous infection that can lead to death in severe cases. Parents should ensure their children are fully protected against measles, mumps and rubella with two doses of the MMR vaccine.

[trotsky]

1. Wakefield's "legacy" continues.

Stupid quack.

[xchrom]

2. +1