A vaccination ‘catch-up’ programme is being introduced after an increase in cases of measles in Central Beds this year.
There have been two cases of measles confirmed in Central Beds in as many months this year, compared with none at all in the year up until March 2012.
The national programme will introduce a framework of local NHS teams working alongside Local Government to produce plans to identify and give MMR to un-vaccinated and partially vaccinated 10-16 year olds.
Though local measles figures are not as worrying as totals in the North West and North East – were there have been recent outbreaks – it is hoped the move will stifle the increase in cases.
Experts attribute the rise to a number of children who missed out on vaccination in the late 1990s and early 2000s when concern over a discredited link between autism and the vaccine was widespread.
Dr Mike Lilley of the Public Health Centre said: “Measles is a potentially fatal but entirely preventable disease so it is very disappointing that we have seen cases in Central Beds this year.
“The only way to prevent measles outbreaks is to ensure good uptake of the MMR across all age groups, and that when cases are reported, immediate public health action is taken to protect vulnerable individuals as soon as possible.
“Measles is not a mild illness - it is very unpleasant and can lead to serious complications as we have seen with more than 100 children in England being hospitalised so far this year.
“It is never too late to get vaccinated against measles. Parents of unvaccinated children, teenagers and young adults who have missed out on MMR should discuss this with their GP, particularly if they are unsure whether they or their child has had two doses of the vaccine.”
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