Measles cases doubled after outbreaks

The number of measles cases in England and Wales during the first six months of 2012 is twice...

12:18 26 August 2012

The number of measles cases in England and Wales during the first six months of 2012 is twice as many compared to last year. 

 

The official figures released by the Health Protection Agency showed that the number of measles cases rose from 497 to 964. The measles outbreak is most significant in Sussex and Merseyside. 

 

In light of this, the agency is urging parents to obtain up-to-date MMR vaccinations to protect their kids from measles, mumps, and rubella. 

 

Measles can be quite serious and can even be fatal in some cases. If not fatal, it can also cause complications such as meningitis and encephalitis, or the inflammation of the lining of the brain. Sometimes, rare disorders involving the eye, heart, and the nervous system can also develop. 

 

The number of cases of German measles or Rubella has also increased. Between January and June, over 57 cases of rubella have been recorded in England and Wales. This number is greater than the annual totals for each location for the past nine years. 

 

Most cases of the measles are being linked to traveling to other European countries. The measles usually begin with a mild infection, but if a pregnant woman becomes infected, it can lead to birth defects.