Measles cases are rising across England – and latest figures show that over 4,000 youngsters in the county have not received the full MMR vaccine dosage.
Immunisation nurses are touring the county to making booking and getting vaccinations as easy as possible.
There has been an increase in measles cases in England and there are concerns that cases in Cumbria may occur if children are not fully vaccinated; two doses are required for full protection.
Measles is a very infectious viral illness that can cause blindness, sepsis and meningitis. Potentially leading to serious complications and death.
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust’s School-Aged Immunisation Hub is undertaking a vaccination campaign over the summer months, visiting various community groups and centres to deliver the vaccine.
The team lead nurse for West Cumbria, Judith Starkie said: “Our school aged immunisations team have started a campaign to try and make sure as many people in Cumbria are up to date with their Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
“We are currently checking the records of the county’s children and for those with outstanding first or second doses of MMR inviting parents/guardians to call us to book a clinic appointment. We are running clinics in the community across the county.”
The team are also offering the outstanding MMR vaccines in secondary schools throughout the summer term. Consent forms will be sent out to parents and guardians.
Judith added: “I really urge you to take up the vaccine offer if you receive a letter. Measles is one of the world’s most infectious diseases and there is no medical treatment for it. MMR vaccination is the best protection against becoming seriously unwell.”
The MMR Programme starts in the baby immunisation programme. The first dose is usually given at a year old and the second dose at three years and four months old. Older children should have two doses of the vaccine with at least a 28 day gap between.
There is no maximum age requirement for MMR – anyone is eligible if outstanding a dose.
For more information, call 01900 705045 or visit https://www.ncic.nhs.uk/services/healthy-child-hub-0-19/school-based-immunisation-programme
