Mersey Reporter - #Merseybites #News

FAMILIES within Liverpool are being warned to act now, as more than:- 1 in 4 children under 5 have not received both doses of the lifesaving MMR vaccine.

Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health:- "World Immunisation Week is a vital reminder of just how important it is to keep vaccinations up to date, particularly with the recent rise in measles and whooping cough cases across the country. We are urging parents and carers to check that their children are fully protected with all the vaccines they are eligible for. If you are unsure, please contact your GP Surgery for advice and support. Vaccinations offer the best protection against serious and preventable diseases, and it is crucial that children receive them as soon as they are offered."

During World Immunisation Week (24 April to 30 April), Liverpool City Council is highlighting the urgent need for families to protect children by making sure they are fully vaccinated against:- measles, mumps, and rubella or risk leaving them vulnerable to dangerous diseases.

Across the City, only 73% of children have received both doses of MMR, significantly lower than the national average of 84%, and well below the amount needed to safeguard the most vulnerable members of our communities.

Nathan Askew, Chief Nursing Officer at Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, said:- "Measles and some other childhood illnesses are preventable through vaccination. Sadly, we still see cases of children living with the lifelong effects of these illnesses. Having personally nursed some children, I have seen the devastating impact on families. Often thought of as common childhood illnesses, they can make some children very unwell, including:- needing intensive care, and can have life-changing consequences. This Immunisation Week, we urge you to ensure everyone in your family is protected by getting a safe, free vaccine which prevents measles and other childhood illnesses."

Diseases such as:- measles can cause serious illnesses, including:- pneumonia, meningitis, and seizures.

Measles spreads quickly, particularly among people who are unvaccinated, but 2 doses of the MMR vaccine provide safe, effective, and long lasting protection.

Concerns are also growing about low levels of protection against:- whooping cough among babies in Liverpool.

Pregnant women can have the vaccine at their 20 week scan to protect newborns during their most vulnerable early weeks.

Whooping cough is a serious infection of the lungs and breathing tubes, causing:- severe coughing fits, breathing difficulties, and, in some cases, life threatening illness requiring hospital care.

Speak to your GP practice or midwife about vaccination during pregnancy to ensure you and your baby are protected. Or visit Liverpool Women's Hospital Vaccination Clinics website:- LiverpoolWomens.NHS.UK.

Contact your GP to check if your child's vaccinations are up to date and to book an appointment.

Information about the routine childhood immunisation programme can be found online at:- NHS.UK.