Extra MMR vaccination clinics for children in Jersey

Health experts say it is essential all children are fully protected

Extra MMR vaccination clinics are being offered to children in the run up to school half term.

The sessions are aimed at children in Jersey who are not up to date with their vaccination schedule.

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella, and is usually given in two doses, at the ages of one and three years.

Health experts said it was "essential all children are fully protected", amid a rise in cases of measles in the UK.

Director of Public Health, Professor Peter Bradley, said: "With half term coming up and families going on holiday, there's always a risk of getting ill.

"Measles is an unpleasant illness that can result in serious complications, so I urge parents to make sure their children are as protected as possible, especially if they are leaving the Island in the next few weeks."

Children need two MMR vaccinations to be fully protected

The clinics will be held in the outpatients department at the General Hospital on:

• 3 February, 09:00 - 12:00 GMT

• 7 February, 16:30 - 18:30

Parents will need to book an appointment for their child with the immunisations team by calling 01534 445790.