UKHSA warns ‘act today’ as ‘very nasty illness’ returns to UK

The UKHSA has issued an urgent warning to the entire UK just as schools go back next week.

The UK Health Security Agency has urged parents to catch up on vaccinations before their kids go back on Monday or Tuesday next week as fears of a ‘very nasty’ disease set to return.

NHS England and the UKHSA is ‘reminding parents and carers’ about ‘the risk of their children missing out’ on protection against measles, whooping cough, meningitis and and diphtheria or polio and other ‘serious diseases’.

It said: “Measles spreads very easily among those who are unvaccinated, especially in nurseries and schools. It can be a very nasty illness and in some children can be very serious, leading to hospitalisation and life-long complications and tragically even death in rare cases. Getting vaccinated not only gives children protection but it also helps to prevent the spread of the disease and protect those more vulnerable.”

The UKHSA added: “Since Autumn 23 there have been a number of major measles outbreaks in the West Midlands, North West and London with sporadic cases across the country – resulting in the highest number of cases in England since 2012.

“This prompted the launch of wide ranging MMR catch-up activities targeting communities with low uptake led by NHS and other partners between August 23 and April 24, for children who missed measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines.”

Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist, said: “As a mum and doctor it is especially tragic to see kids suffering when these diseases are so easily preventable.

“Two MMR jabs offer the best and safest protection against measles. If unvaccinated, children are at risk of serious illness or life-long complications. No parent wants this for their child.

“It is encouraging that parents, whose children have missed vaccines are now coming forward, but we are a long way from ensuring all are protected and safe. And importantly vaccination is also about not spreading the disease to others who may be more vulnerable.

“Measles is highly infectious and is still circulating in many areas across the country. It only takes one case to get into a school or nursery where many children are unprotected for numbers to suddenly surge.

“Our campaign will be visible across multi-media channels and sees children urging their parents to get them protected.

“Parents should check their child’s vaccinations Red Book to ensure they are up to date with MMR and all their vaccines. If unsure, contact your GP practice, who can check and provide the vaccinations your child needs. Don’t put it off, please act today.”