Parents are being urged to protect their children against measles by getting them immunised with two doses of MMR before they return to school this September, following an increase in cases of measles over recent weeks.

Latest reports show there have been 480 confirmed cases of measles in the UK so far this year and this compares to a provisional total of 756 cases during the whole of 2006. The number of cases in 2006 was the highest number ever recorded since the current method of monitoring began in 1995 and this year looks set to follow that trend. Up until the 10 th June 2007 only 136 cases of measles had been confirmed. With the total now at 480, the number of cases is increasing at a higher rate than usual for this time of year.

Dr Mary Ramsay, a Consultant Epidemiologist with the Health Protection Agency, said:

"Over the summer holidays we have seen more cases of measles being reported than we would normally expect. This means it is crucial that children are fully immunised with two doses of MMR before they return to school. Measles is a highly infectious and dangerous illness, and as there is increased close contact in schools, it can spread easily. Now is the time parents will be buying their children a new school uniform to prepare for the school year ahead, but being prepared to avoid infection is even more important. Parents should think about adding the MMR vaccine to their back to school 'to do' list."

The increase in cases this year has been noted particularly in communities where vaccine uptake is lower, including in children on traveller sites, but cases are currently occurring in unvaccinated school age children. Over the course of the year, there have also been small outbreaks in primary schools and cases in people returning from other countries.

Dr Ramsay added: "Public confidence in the MMR vaccine continues to remain high as the uptake for those receiving their first dose has stayed stable. However, it is also important to remember that children should complete their full course of MMR vaccine. In January to March 2007 uptake of the MMR vaccine was at 88% for the first dose but only 74% for the second dose. After the first dose, between 5% and 10% of children are not protected against measles hence two doses of MMR will gives better protection. It also important to remember it is never too late to get vaccinated."

1. Measles is an acute infection caused by the measles virus. It is rare in the UK due to high levels of immunity but is most common in the 1-4 year old age group in children who have not been immunised.

2. For more information on measles click here

3. Figures for confirmed measles up to 24 August 2007 in the UK are as follows:
-- 465 cases in England
-- 10 in Wales
-- 5 in Scotland
-- There have been no cases in Northern Ireland.

4. Uptake of MMR is measured at two and five years of age. Current uptake in UK children starting school (at five years of age) is at 88% for one dose and only 74% for two doses. More information can be found here

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