North London measles outbreak continues as cases rise

"The outbreak is still mostly affecting unvaccinated children under 10 in schools and nurseries. With the time lag involved with confirming cases through laboratory testing, we expect the actual number of cases to be higher. The outbreak has led to some children having to be hospitalised. Measles is a nasty illness for any child, but for some it can lead to serious long term complications and tragically death, but is so easily preventable with two doses of the MMRV vaccine."

"All parents want what is best for their child - if they have missed any of their doses or you're unsure, get in touch with your GP surgery. It's never too late to catch up. The MMRV vaccine will give them the vital protection they need against this highly contagious disease, but also help protect more vulnerable children around them who are too young or unable to have the vaccine due to a weakened immune system."

There have been 50 confirmed measles cases in Enfield up to February 16 and 130 confirmed cases in England between January 1 and February 16. The outbreak is concentrated in north London, affecting schools and nurseries and primarily impacting unvaccinated children under ten, with some children hospitalised. Laboratory confirmation lags mean true case numbers are likely higher. Measles can cause pneumonia, brain inflammation, long-term disability or death, but is preventable with two MMRV doses. Health officials advise parents to contact GP surgeries to catch up on missed doses. Neighboring areas warn cases may spread to Essex, Southend and Thurrock.

Read at www.standard.co.uk