PARENTS have been urged to "act now” as measles infections surge across the country amid an increase in unvaccinated children.
Cases have risen 138 per cent in England in the last month, according to new figures.
There were 69 confirmed cases during the week ending January 14, up from 29 from the week ending December 16, UK Health Security Data (UKHSA) reveals.
The cases are based on doctor notifications, which have been confirmed through lab testing. The true number is likely to be much higher.
There were 1,603 suspected cases in England and Wales last year, separate UKHSA data show, up from 735 the previous year.
Falling vaccination rates mean rates could continue to increase unless measures are taken, experts warn.
Most cases come from London and the West Midlands, where vaccine rates are especially low.
Dr David Elliman, of Great Ormond Street Hospital, said: “As between one in 1,000 to one in 5,000 people getting measles will die, we could see dozens of deaths from an easily preventable disease.
“On top of this would be many more hospital admissions, as we have sadly seen in the Midlands, and people left with long-term problems.”
Measles is an infection that can cause serious problems, including pneumonia, brain-swelling meningitis, blindness and seizures.
Read more: www.thesun.co.uk/health/25407...
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Негізгі бет Ғылым және технология Measles cases rise 138% in a month
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