MMR vaccine uptake rates at a 13 year high

Immunisation data published by the HPA shows that UK uptake rates for MMR vaccination for children aged two years reached 90 per cent in the first quarter of this year – the highest level for 13 years.

Three Scottish and two Northern Ireland Health Boards and 14 English PCTs achieved the World Health Organisation (WHO) target of 95 per cent coverage for this age group.

In the North West 91.8 per cent of children aged 24 months were vaccinated in the first quarter of the year.

HPA’s North West Immunisation Lead, Dr. Sam Ghebrehewet, said: “We have seen an increase in measles cases this year, here in the North West and across the country. These have mainly been in children, teenagers and adults who were not previously vaccinated.

“It is therefore very good news indeed that parents are responding so well and ensuring that their children have the protection that MMR affords.”

Latest figures from the Agency reveal that 496 confirmed cases of measles were reported in England and Wales – including 29 cases in the North West.

New cases are predominantly in children and young adults up to the age of 19 years who weren’t previously vaccinated.

A number of the UK cases have been associated with travel abroad and with the summer holidays approaching, the HPA is strongly advising parents and young adults of the importance of vaccination when planning an overseas trip. Over 11,000 cases of measles were reported in 35 European countries in the first four months of this year.

Head of the immunisation department at the HPA Dr. Mary Ramsay said: “We cannot stress enough that measles is serious and in some cases it can be fatal. It is a highly infectious and potentially dangerous illness that spreads very easily. Whether you stay here or travel abroad, it is crucial that individuals who may be at risk are fully immunised.”