Sheffield health officials warn of measles outbreak in city

Health officials have urged people to be vigilant following a measles outbreak in Sheffield.

The warning comes after vaccine rates among young children in the UK dipped to a 10-year low.

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

Anyone who suspects their child has symptoms is advised to stay at home and call 111 or their GP for advice.

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.

Other symptoms include; sore, red, watery eyes, a cough and aching and feeling generally unwell.

What is measles?

• Measles is a highly contagious virus that spreads very easily

• Just 15 minutes in direct contact with someone infected is enough to catch it

• People whose immunity is compromised, pregnant women and unvaccinated children are at increased risk of severe disease