4000 children in Cumbria have not been fully vaccinated for measles, it has been revealed.

It comes amid the rising number of cases across the nation.

There has been a significant increase in England, sparking concerns that similar occurrences may transpire in Cumbria if children fail to receive their two-dose vaccination necessary for full protection.

To combat this issue, immunisation nurses from North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust’s School-Aged Immunisation Hub are touring the county, aiming to make the booking and vaccination procedure as simple as possible for parents.

They are also aiming to maximise the levels of protection by leading a vaccination campaign throughout the summer months.

The team are visiting community groups and centres across Cumbria.

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."

(Image: North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust)

In addition to the clinics, the immunisation team is targeting secondary schools during this summer term, offering MMR vaccines to those in need.

Ms Starkie further stressed the importance of the vaccine, saying: "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."

As part of their efforts to raise awareness, the immunisation team will be providing information about MMR vaccinations and measles/mumps/rubella diseases at family centres and community clinics.

Those aged one and three years four months are the typical recipients of the MMR immunisation, but vaccinations are also available for older children, with no age limit.

Parents and guardians interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the team at 01900 705045 or visit the North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust website.