Liverpool is at risk of a measles outbreak in light of a recent increase in cases throughout Birmingham and Coventry, mainly among children under the age of 10. Since Liverpool has remained free of measles for several years, the Director of Public Health for the city is concerned about the possibility of the disease spreading and is urging parents to stay informed and confident in their ability to protect their children with the right information about measles and MMR vaccinations.
In 2012, Liverpool experienced a significant outbreak, with over 2,400 young people and children becoming sick. The NHS and local public health workers, alongside parents, schools and nurseries, worked together to bring the outbreak under control but the cost of the outbreak was estimated at over £4 million due to NHS treatment, days lost to sickness and other public health actions. Despite the outbreak occurring when MMR vaccine rates were higher than the national average, there has since been a decline in Liverpool’s vaccination rates with the number of people being vaccinated for measles falling lower than it was when the 2012 outbreak occurred.
Liverpool currently has lower vaccination rates than the national average with just 80% of families getting their child vaccinated before the age of two, compared to the national average of 89%. Further, just 74% of children in Liverpool have received the second dose of MMR needed before the age of five to be fully protected from the measles virus, with the UK national average at 85%. Experts warn that 95% uptake is needed to halt the spread of the disease and that this should happen across all neighbourhoods, regardless of socio-economic status. However, children in wealthier parts of Liverpool, on the whole, are more protected against infectious diseases, including measles, than children in poorer neighbourhoods.
Families and communities in Liverpool must understand the risks of measles and take steps to learn more about vaccines that can protect both them and their children. It is always possible to receive the MMR vaccine, which is free to the public and safe and easy to obtain, so protection against measles is never too late. Healthcare experts urge parents to ensure their child’s vaccines are up to date by checking their ‘Red Book’. Those who are unsure as to their child’s vaccination status can call their GP practice to inquire. If someone is unregistered with a GP practice, they can also find and register with a practice online through the NHS website
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