Measles in the United Kingdom (Update)

13 Mar 2012

The ongoing outbreak of measles in Merseyside has now spread to other areas and the Health Protection Agency is investigating 48 confirmed cases, 37 probable cases and 108 suspected cases.

Confirmed cases have now been reported from central and eastern Cheshire, Halton and St Helens, Knowsley, Sefton and Wirral with suspected cases in Warrington and western Cheshire.

Official data has identified that more than 7000 children under the age of 5 years in Merseyside are either not immunised or are partially immunised against measles. Parents in the area are being urged to ensure that their children are fully immunised against measles.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.