Health leaders in North and North East Lincolnshire are urging people to come forward and get vaccinated against Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) to protect themselves and others and help reduce the risk of an outbreak of measles across the two counties.
Figures show that almost one in 10 children aged five to 15 in North Lincolnshire remain at risk because they are not fully vaccinated.
Diane Lee, Director of Public Health for both North and North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “Measles spreads very easily among those who are unvaccinated, especially in places like nurseries and schools.
“Children who get measles can be very poorly, sometimes leading to hospitalisation and suffering life changing complications.
“People in certain at-risk groups including babies and young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immunity, are also at increased risk of complications from measles.
“The best way for parents to protect their children from these preventable diseases is the MMR vaccine. I’d also recommend that all adults in our area should check their vaccination status with their GP.
“Two doses of the MMR vaccine give lifelong protection and it’s never too late to catch up.”
The UK has recently seen a rise in the number of cases of measles and is part of a wider NHS campaign to get people protected. It is not just a childhood disease and can be serious at any age.
Jack Lewis, consultant in public health with the Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, added: “While we would strongly urge parents to make arrangements for their child to be vaccinated, it’s worth emphasising the MMR vaccine isn’t just for children.
“It is important at any age, particularly if you have a weakened immune system or long-term health condition.
“If you or your child are not fully vaccinated, please make an appointment with your GP practice to catch up on any vaccinations.”
For more information about Measles, Mumps and Rubella and the vaccine, visit the NHS website.
