Single MMR – Doctors’ Warning as Measles Strike

As cases of measles reach record levels, doctors have issued warnings that more parents need to ensure their children receive the single MMR vaccine.

Measles in children can be a devastating virus. Globally, measles is highly contagious which kills around one million children every year. The UK vaccination procedures have ensured it’s hard to catch the disease, but after concerns were raised around the safety of the single MMR vaccine, cases are at their highest level for 20 years.

Single MMR Vaccine is Crucial

The rise in measles has prompted doctors to issue a warning to parents in the UK, advising them to immunise their children using the single MMR jab. Scientific evidence and research has established the single MMR jab to be safe and reliable, and has concluded there is no link to an increased risk of autism. Measles on the other hand can be fatal. Although children don’t usually die from the disease, they can die from complications or suffer damage such as blindness, brain damage and pneumonia.

Those who are more vulnerable to contracting the disease need to ensure they have the single MMR vaccination. At risk categories include babies under one, those with immune suppressed systems due to HIV or cancer, malnourished people and children with a deficiency in vitamin A. Pregnant women are also at risk of miscarriage as a result of the infection. Doctors have highlighted that:

• Measles can, and is, fatal and can cause long-term harm but the single MMR vaccination prevents this risk

More parents are being urged to ensure their children are property protected against measles using the single MMR vaccine after cases of the disease in the UK rose to 971 in 2007 (a 30% rise from 2006, which recorded 740 cases). The Health Protection Agency said the increase was the highest jump in the infection since records began. The agency blamed the patchy uptake for the single MMR vaccine that protects children against measles, mumps and rubella. It’s thought there are several hundred thousand children who have not had the single MMR vaccination, leaving them highly vulnerable. Dr Mary Ramsay, a consultant at the agency told the Guardian newspaper, “The only way to reduce the impact of such outbreaks is to ensure the uptake of the MMR vaccine increases, and that older children who have missed out come forward for vaccination.”

Looking for a Single MMR Vaccine? CITYDOC Can Help

For a range of vaccines, including the MMR vaccine, London based CITYDOC is ideally located in the City of London for fast and professional service. Based at the junction of City Road and Finsbury Square, CITYDOC is open for walk-in patients or you can book your appointment by contacting the practice now on 0207 256 8668. The clinic offers MMR vaccines to children and adults. If you require an MMR vaccine for your child, contact CITYDOC today.

 

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