Measles jab rate in England falls to ten percent below recommended rate

pharmafile | February 1, 2022 | News story | Medical Communications |   

Over one in 10 school entry-age children in England are at risk of measles due to not receiving their vaccine jabs, data reveals.

Coverage for the two doses of MMR that helps protect five-year-olds against measles, mumps, and rubella is currently at 85.5%, which is the lowest for a decade, and ten percent below the 95% target recommended to prevent a resurgence of measles.

Measles is extremely contagious, and can lead to serious illness. Nine in every 10 people can catch it if they are unvaccinated and exposed to the disease. It can lead to severe complications, such as pneumonia and brain inflammation, and can sometimes be fatal. Vaccination removes almost all of these risks; two doses of the MMR vaccine give 99% protection against measles and rubella, and roughly 88% protection against mumps.

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Dr Nikki Kanani, from NHS England, commented: “If your child has missed a vaccination, please contact your GP practice to book an appointment as soon as you can to make sure they have maximum protection against disease.”

Vaccines minister Maggie Throup added: “If you are unsure whether your child has had their full course of the MMR vaccine, check their red book or talk to your GP. The vaccine is safe, it will protect your child and their school friends and is very easy to access.”

Although measles cases saw a drastic fall during the pandemic, due to social distancing rules and reduced travel, the UKSHA is concerned that this could see a resurgence in the unvaccinated when restrictions are fully eased.

Lina Adams

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