UK (Parliament Politic Magazine) – A doctor is urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated as the UK is currently experiencing a surge in highly contagious measles cases. Dr. Neil O’Brien, the medical director of the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), emphasizes the crucial role of proper immunization for children. He states that it is “one of the most vital responsibilities” for parents or caregivers.
In light of the increasing prevalence of measles, parents must take proactive measures to protect their children’s health. Vaccination serves as a powerful shield against this highly contagious disease, preventing its spread and potential complications.
Health Authorities Raise Alarm Due to Escalating Threat of Measles
Doctor Neil O Brian added: “We know that vaccines have saved more lives than any other medical invention in history.” From 2019 to 2022, there were no reported cases of measles in the northeast of England. However, the situation has recently taken a turn, and we are now witnessing the emergence of a small number of cases, as cautioned by the expert.
The UK Health Security Agency has identified 49 cases of measles from January to April this year, which is a decrease compared to the 54 cases reported throughout the entirety of 2022. Measles is an infectious disease that can result in various severe health complications, such as meningitis, pneumonia, and in rare instances, long-term disability or even death.
This is concerning because measles is considered a highly infectious disease that can spread rapidly. Dr. O’Brien elaborated on this matter. “One person with measles can infect nine out of 10 close contacts.” He added: “We’re asking all parents, carers, and guardians to make sure their children are up to date with both MMR doses and fully protected. It’s never too late to catch up, and you can get the MMR vaccine for free whatever your age.”
Skyrocketing Cases of Measles Sparks Urgent Alerts from Health Officials
Vaccination rates in England have significantly declined, falling far below the recommended 95 percent population coverage set by the World Health Organization (WHO) to effectively prevent outbreaks. To ensure their children are adequately protected, parents can easily verify their vaccination status by referring to their Red Book, which contains their comprehensive vaccine record.
The MMR vaccine, safeguarding against measles, mumps, and rubella, is administered to children at the age of one, followed by a second dose at three years and four months. It is crucial to address the concerning drop in vaccination rates in England, as it poses a significant threat to public health.
Achieving the WHO’s recommended coverage is vital in eliminating the risk of outbreaks and safeguarding the well-being of our communities. By staying informed and ensuring our children receive the necessary vaccinations, we can collectively work towards a healthier and safer future.
Steve Russell, the Director of Vaccinations at NHS England, stated: The NHS has an inspiring history of successful vaccination programs that have proven time and time again they are the best tool in our arsenal against the spread of highly infectious diseases and since vaccination for measles cases was introduced, over 4,500 lives have been saved’’.
Read More: Exclusive: UK Health Agency Denies Vaccine Stockpiling Amidst Global COVID-19 Crisis
Measles Outbreak Reaches Critical Level
As the infection continues to spread across multiple countries globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm, cautioning that Europe may face a resurgence unless countries take swift action to vaccinate children who have been left unprotected.
In light of this, Travel Health Pro advises UK residents planning to travel abroad this summer to prioritize their safety by ensuring they are fully immunized against measles. This can be accomplished by either having a documented history of prior infection or by receiving two doses of a measles-containing vaccine.
According to Steve Russell:
‘’The MMR vaccine has helped prevent the development of potentially life-threatening illness among millions, and it is clear that when uptake falls, infections rise, so I strongly urge parents to review the status of their child’s vaccinations so they can keep them and others protected from measles, mumps, and rubella’’.
According to the National Health Service (NHS), measles typically begins with symptoms resembling a common cold, which is then succeeded by the appearance of a blotchy red-brown rash after a few days.