Calls to make sure children are vaccinated against measles
Around 4000 are unprotected in Cumbria.
Work has begun to try and get around 4000 children across Cumbria vaccinated against measles.
That's the number we told you last week that are currently not protected.
Whilst there's been no outbreak here - cases have been rising in other parts of England.
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.”