HEALTH officials have renewed their plea to parents to vaccinate their children with two doses of MMR vaccine following measles outbreaks in Cheshire and Trafford – to make sure they don't spread to Glossop.
The number of cases in the Cheshire outbreak has now risen to over 50. Further laboratory test results are awaited.
One child needed hospital treatment but has since recovered and been allowed to go home. Mass MMR vaccination sessions have now bee
n arranged in primary and secondary schools in the area in an attempt to stop the spread of the disease.
Dr Anne Rothery, Medical Director of NHS Tameside and Glossop said: "Whilst there have been no reported cases in Tameside and Glossop as yet, there is a danger we will see further outbreaks, here and elsewhere in the region.
"There has already been a big outbreak in Blackpool, Lancashire, and a smaller outbreak in the Manchester vicinity.
"That is why it is so important for all children and young people under the age of 18 to be protected by two doses of MMR vaccine.
"We are working with schools and GP practices to get that message across to parents, guardians and young people themselves.
"Children and young people who have not had the benefit of two doses of MMR vaccine will be vulnerable to measles, mumps and rubella and there is a lot of measles about at the present time.
"The risk is very real."
Measles is a serious illness that can cause complications such as meningitis and encephalitis.
On rare occasions, it can kill.
Anyone with concerns or seeking information about the MMR campaign should consult their family doctor.
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