HEALTH ALERT
Urgent warning as UK faces ‘very real risk’ of new outbreak of killer Victorian disease – and kids are at highest risk
THE UK faces a "very real risk" of a new measles outbreak, experts have warned.
There could be tens of thousands of cases of the deadly Victorian disease in London alone unless MMR vaccination rates improve.
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Data published today shows there has been a steady rise in cases this year.
Between January 1 and June 30, there were 128 infections, compared to 54 for the whole of 2022.
Cases were recorded in all regions, but two thirds were detected in London.
There is now potential for a major resurgence, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said.
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While the risk of a nationwide epidemic is low, current immunisation levels in London means an outbreak of between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could occur.
Experts also said there is a high risk of cases linked to overseas travel, leading to outbreaks in young people and under-vaccinated communities.
The risk in London is primarily due to low vaccination rates over several years, further impacted by the pandemic, it is said.
Uptake is as low as 70 per cent in some parts of the city, with 95 per cent needed for herd immunity.
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Parents should check their children are fully vaccinated with two MMR doses, which gives 99 per cent life-long protection.
Anyone not up-to-date should make an appointment as soon as possible.
The illness, characterised by a red-brown blotchy rash or spots, can lead to serious health complications like meningitis and pneumonia.
In rare cases, it can be fatal.
An estimated 128,000 people globally died from measles in 2021, according to the World Health Organization.
Most deaths were among the unvaccinated or children under the age of five.
The MMR vaccine is part of routine childhood immunisations in the UK.
It nearly wiped out the bug in the 2010s, but fewer people have been taking up the offer and Britain lost its "elimination" status in 2019 when there were 880 cases.
Achieving high coverage across the population, known as herd immunity, is vital to protect kids under one and other vulnerable groups, the UKHSA said.
'VERY REAL RISK'
Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA consultant epidemiologist said: "Measles can be a serious infection that can lead to complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
"Due to longstanding sub-optimal vaccine uptake, there is now a very real risk of seeing big outbreaks in London.
"Measles spreads very easily but is preventable.
"To help protect ourselves, our families and those around us it is vital we all ensure we are vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine, free on the NHS whatever your age.
"It’s important everyone is fully vaccinated before travelling overseas this summer.
"Nobody wants to see their child or loved ones sick with measles, or put others who are more vulnerable, like babies, at risk.
"I urge those who have missed their MMR vaccines to catch-up now."
NHS England has launched a national campaign to encourage uptake.
All kids at primary school who have missed one or both doses are being offered the opportunity to get up to date at school.
Mums and dads of younger children, or those who are home-schooled, can make an appointment with their GP practice or visit a community clinic.
Due to longstanding sub-optimal vaccine uptake, there is now a very real risk of seeing big outbreaks in London.
Dr Vanessa Saliba
Jane Clegg, regional chief nurse for the NHS in London said: "Measles can easily spread between unvaccinated people and can be serious, but it is preventable, which is why we continue to encourage Londoners to take up the vaccine – with GPs calling over 10,000 parents of unvaccinated children, and hundreds booking appointments to get vaccinated as a result.
"Cases of measles in the capital remain low but it’s really important that people check that they, and their children, are up to date with their jabs and protected against MMR.
"Now’s the time to act to protect yourself and loved ones from measles."
Vaccine coverage in the NHS routine childhood programme is the lowest it has been in a decade.
It is well short (85 per cent) of the WHO's target of 95 per cent to curb outbreaks.
Measles is one of the world’s most infectious viruses and spreads by coughs, sneezes and close physical contact.
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Most people recover quickly from the disease, but the worst cases can trigger pneumonia, brain damage or death.
All kids are offered two doses of the jab at ages one and three.
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