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Epidemiology

Measles Cases Rise in West Midlands, Parents Urged to Vaccinate Children

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

As cases of measles continue to circulate in the West Midlands, particularly in Birmingham, parents and carers are being advised to ensure all children are up to date with their vaccinations. With the October half-term school holiday approaching, public health officials are urging families to catch up on their vaccinations to prevent the spread of the disease. According to the UKHSA Data Dashboard, there have been 811 confirmed cases of measles in England this year, with 44 cases reported in the West Midlands.

Key Takeaways:

  • The West Midlands region has seen a significant rise in measles cases, with 44 confirmed cases reported this year, out of a total of 811 cases in England.
  • The majority of measles cases are in children under the age of ten, with 15 to 24-year-olds being the next group at greatest risk.
  • Two doses of the MMR vaccine are said to provide 99% immunity against measles and rubella, with lower levels of protection against mumps.
  • Vaccination is crucial in preventing the spread of measles, as the virus can cause serious complications, including ear infections, chest infections, and brain inflammation.
  • In rare cases, measles can be fatal. Emma Booth, Consultant in Health Protection leading on vaccine preventable diseases for UKHSA West Midlands, emphasizes the importance of vaccination in preventing the disease.
  • The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants at 1 year of age, with the second dose given to pre-school children at around 3 years and 4 months old.

Statistics:

  • 811 confirmed cases of measles in England this year (according to UKHSA Data Dashboard)
  • 44 confirmed cases of measles in the West Midlands this year (according to UKHSA Data Dashboard)
  • 99% immunity against measles and rubella provided by two doses of the MMR vaccine
  • Majority of measles cases are in children under the age of 10
  • 15 to 24-year-olds are the next group at greatest risk of measles

Sources:

  • UKHSA Data Dashboard
  • Emma Booth, Consultant in Health Protection leading on vaccine preventable diseases for UKHSA West Midlands

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