Watch for measles, UK doctors told, as vaccine rate dips

Doctors must be on high alert for measles as vaccine rates among young children have dipped to a 10-year low, leaving some unprotected and risking outbreaks of the highly infectious and dangerous virus, experts say.

It is the first time in decades the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) has issued national guidance such as this.

At least 95% of children should be double vaccinated by the age of five. But the UK is well below that target.

Latest figures show only 84.5% had received a second shot of the protective measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) jab - the lowest level since 2010-11.

Measles can make children very sick. The main symptoms are a fever and a rash but it can cause serious complications including meningitis. For some, it is fatal.

The RCPCH is worried the UK is now seeing a "devastating resurgence" of virtually eliminated life-threatening diseases such as measles, because of low vaccine uptake.

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Source: BBC News, 22 November 2023