Rise in measles cases in Gloucestershire prompts vaccination calls

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West is urging residents to check that they are up to date with their MMR vaccinations following confirmation of 15 new cases of measles within Bristol and Gloucestershire in the last two weeks. The UKHSA South West team is working with local authority and NHS partners to manage the response to these cases.

Whilst measles has been circulating in other regions of the UK over recent months, there have been very few cases reported in the South West of England so far this year. The spread of reported cases suggests that measles may be spreading within the community, particularly between unvaccinated individuals.

The UKHSA stress that vaccination is a safe and effective way to stop the spread of measles and protect those most vulnerable to infection. The MMR vaccination rate for two doses across the South West is lower than 90% and two doses of the MMR vaccine offers the best and safest protection against measles.

READ MORE: 'See doctor immediately' if you're over 50 and suffer from eye twitching, says GP

READ MORE: 'I'm a cardiac nurse – follow these steps if your blood pressure is too high'

Siobhan Farmer, director of public health at Gloucestershire County Council said: “Due to the rising cases of measles in Gloucestershire, we are urging people of all ages to make sure they have had both doses of the vaccine to protect themselves, their friends and their families, and prevent a larger outbreak.

“Measles can be very serious, particularly for children or people with a compromised immune system. It can lead to hospitalisation, life-long complications, and even death in the most serious of cases. Families with children should make sure they receive both doses of the vaccine as soon as they can.

“If you aren’t sure about your vaccination status, try speaking to a parent or carer, and if still unsure you can check with your GP. It is never too late to get immunised.”