Measles cases rise whilst the MMR debate continues

It appears that Measles is now endemic in certain parts of  South East England.  In the borough of Lewisham alone the Health Protection Agency reports at least 500 confirmed cases already this year.  The suggestion has been made that the increased incidence is due to a low up take of the MMR vaccine within the area. 

Confidence in the MMR vaccination has waned since 1998 following Dr Andrew Wakefield’s research which suggested a connection between the combined MMR and autism and bowel problems. Many articles and research papers since then have failed to convince some health professionals and more importantly some parents, that there is no definite link between the vaccination and autism.

Measles is a highly contagious virus which can be caught by anyone but is more prevalent in younger children.  It’s contracted by breathing infected droplets from the nose and throat i.e. sneezing and coughing, and can cause serious complications and even fatalities.

The Health Protection Agency states that once Measles is in a susceptible population it spreads easily   The problem is that children are social beings with nursery, school and parties etc, so how do you protect them? The answer is that every child has the right to be protected by vaccination. 

The risk to your child from measles is very real and cannot be ignored.  Whatever view held in this continuing debate the important thing is that you are confident in your choice and that your child has the protection that only vaccination can confer.

This article was written for us by Direct Health 2000 and if you have any queries about any of the issues raised, they would be very happy to talk to you on their helpline, 0870 200 0999, or see their website www.dh2.co.uk.   Established in 1998, Direct Health 2000 champions the right for everyone to choose healthcare option for themselves and their families.  As well as providing a range of affordable and accessible healthcare services they hold paediatric clinics across the country specifically for single Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccinations.