4000 children in Cumbria not vaccinated for measles
A vaccination campaign is being launched for the summer
New stats show that four thousand children in Cumbria are not fully vaccinated for measles.
This is when they have not received the full Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine dosage.
Measles is a very infectious viral illness that can cause: blindness, sepsis and meningitis, potentially leading to serious complications and death.
Immunisation nurses are touring the county to making booking and getting your child vaccinated as easy as possible.
There has been an increase in measles cases in England and there are concerns that cases in Cumbria may occur if children are not fully vaccinated.
Two doses are required for full protection.
North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust’s School-Aged Immunisation Hub are undertaking a vaccination campaign over the summer months, visiting various community groups and centres to deliver the vaccine.
The team lead nurse for west Cumbria, Judith Starkie said:
“Our school aged immunisations team have started a campaign to try and make sure as many people in Cumbria are up to date with their Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
"We are currently checking the records of the county’s children and for those with outstanding first or second doses of MMR inviting parents/guardians to call us to book a clinic appointment. We are running clinics in the community across the county.”
In addition to the offer of community clinics, the School-Aged Immunisation Team are also offering the outstanding MMR vaccines in secondary schools throughout this Summer Term.
Judith added:
“I really urge you to take up the vaccine offer if you receive a letter. Measles is one of the world's most infectious diseases and there is no medical treatment for it. MMR vaccination is the best protection against becoming seriously unwell.”