Push for catch-up MMR jab amid rise in UK cases

There is a push for missed MMR vaccinations amid a rise in UK cases

Manx Care and Public Health has called for young adults to have catch-up measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations amid a continued climb in measles cases in the UK.

Children and adults up to the age of 25 have been the target of the campaign to tackle missed vaccinations.

Whilst there are no known cases on the Isle of Man, there have been 733 cases in England since October last year, and similar MMR vaccination campaigns have taken place.

A spokesperson for the Isle of Man Primary Care Network said the rise in measles cases in the UK was "concerning" and that "vaccination is the best way to protect vulnerable people on the island".

Interim deputy director of Public Health Dr Toyin Amusan said approximately one in five children have to be admitted to hospital if they contract the disease, but measles can be "very serious at any age".

Dr Amusan added MMR was "highly contagious" and could "spread easily amongst unvaccinated people".

By taking advantage of the catch up sessions it would help "contain any outbreaks of the disease and help minimise the risk of long-term effects", Dr Amusan said.

A spokesperson for Manx Care said the body was "ready should any measles cases occur on island".

Manx Care has urged parents and carers of children aged 12 months to five years to come forward if their child has not received a first or second dose of the MMR vaccines - which is given at 12 months and again at three years and four months.

Those who are aged six years to 25 years are encouraged to attend their GPs to get the vaccination.