A LEAD immunisation specialist at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust is urging parents and carers in Cumbria to make sure their children are vaccinated against MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella).

Gayle Howarth, specialist nurse for Immunisation, said: “Measles is more than just a rash; it is a serious, potentially life-changing condition that spreads very easily. It can lead to severe illness and even death in children. For pregnant women, it can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and stillbirths.

“However, measles, as well as mumps and rubella, is preventable, so if you or your child have not had your MMR jab, it is really important that you come forward.”

Two doses of the free MMR vaccine are needed for maximum life-long protection, with the first dose given around the child’s first birthday, and the second dose given at around three years and four months old. But anyone, including those who missed the vaccine as a child, can catch up with the doses.

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. The spots of the measles rash are sometimes raised and join together to form blotchy patches; they are not usually itchy. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth. Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if you suspect measles or have these symptoms.

Millions of parents in England are being contacted by the NHS and urged to make an appointment to have their children vaccinated against measles, as cases rise across the country.

More than 3.4 million children aged under 16 are unprotected and at risk of becoming ill, NHS England says.

A similar campaign last winter pushed up vaccinations by 10 percent.

Why are measles cases rising and what is the MMR vaccine?

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is given in two doses - the first around the age of one and the second when a child is about three years and four months old.

It is very effective at protecting against measles, but only 85 percent of children starting primary school in the UK have had both jabs - well below the target of 95 percent needed to stop it spreading. When vaccination rates decline, we see the disease rates rise. Measles is incredibly easy to transmit.

Why is there a fall in vaccines in children?

There are lots of different factors involved.

With the NHS under huge pressure, child health experts say parents often struggle to get through to their GP and speak to the right staff to ask any questions they might have about the jab. Making a convenient appointment for their child during a busy working day can also be a challenge.

Gayle added: “In Cumbria, our children’s vaccination teams are also working hard to identify unvaccinated children and support them in receiving their vaccines and that is why nationally head teachers in some areas are now working with the NHS to run clinics in schools, where the children are.”

Those unsure whether their child has had the MMR vaccine should contact their GP practice, the vaccine is easy to catch up the missed doses at any age.