Health warning issued after measles outbreak in Bradford
People in Bradford are being encouraged to check they and their children have had two doses of MMR vaccine following confirmation that measles is circulating within the city.
Public Health England (PHE) has reported an increase in measles across the country and in other parts of Yorkshire and the Humber during 2017/18.
Nine confirmed and three suspected cases of measles have now been seen in Bradford since the end of March.
PHE is working with Bradford Council and the NHS to make sure anyone across the city who needs a vaccination to protect against the virus is aware.
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, so anyone with symptoms is also being advised to stay at home and phone their GP or NHS 111 for advice, rather than visiting the surgery or A&E, to prevent the illness spreading further.
It is possible for anyone at any age to get measles and the illness can be more severe in teenagers and adults than in young children.
Dr Coles added: “The free MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way of protecting against measles, as well as mumps and rubella.
"It’s particularly important for parents to take up the offer of MMR vaccination for their children when offered at 1 year of age and as a pre-school booster at three years, four months of age.
"If children and young adults have missed these vaccinations in the past, it’s important to take up the vaccine now from GPs, particularly in light of the recent cases in Bradford.
"Check your child’s Red Book to see if they’ve received MMR vaccinations as scheduled, or check with your GP surgery if you’re unsure.
"Most healthy adults will have developed some immunity to measles but can still receive two doses of the vaccine from their GP too.
Measles symptoms to be aware of include:
High fever
Sore, red, watery eyes
Coughing
Aching and feeling generally unwell
A blotchy red brown rash, which usually appears after the initial symptoms.