MMR Plea to parents, older teenagers and young adults following rise in measles and mumps cases

12 August 2009

There has been a large rise in mumps and measles cases in the North West of England in the first half of 2009, compared to the same period in recent years.

481 confirmed cases of mumps were reported to the HPA by doctors in the North West by the middle of 2009, a rise of over 350% compared to the same period for 2007. As in previous years, the age groups most affected by mumps have been young adults of school and college age aged between 15 and 24. In the North West, Greater Manchester has seen the largest number of mumps cases so far this year.

There have also been 92 confirmed cases of measles reported in the first half of 2009. This is a huge increase from 2007, when only 2 confirmed cases of measles were reported for the same period. Most measles cases in recent years have occurred among children aged under 5. In the North West, Greater Manchester has reported the largest number of measles cases so far this year.

Dr. Paul Cleary, acting consultant regional epidemiologist for the Health Protection Agency said: "We are concerned at the increasing numbers of cases of mumps and measles being reported. Children and young adults can be safely and effectively protected from measles and mumps by receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine. Unfortunately many children have not had this, and as a result we are now seeing more children affected by measles and mumps infections.  Measles and mumps are very infectious and unpleasant infections that can cause serious complications including encephalitis, even in healthy children.  I would urge all parents to protect their children against these infections."

Notes to editors:

Children should ideally receive their first dose of MMR vaccine at age 13 months and a second dose before starting school. However, it is not too late for those who missed out previously to be protected, including teenagers and young adults.

The table below shows numbers of confirmed cases of mumps and measles reported to the HPA since the beginning of 2007. Data for quarter 3 of 2009 is incomplete.

At week 29 of 2009, Greater Manchester has reported a total of 197 confirmed cases of mumps, Cheshire and Merseyside have reported 196, and Cumbria and Lancashire have reported 126. 60% of confirmed cases are aged 15-24 years.

At week 29 of 2009, Greater Manchester reported a total of 48 confirmed cases of measles, Cheshire and Merseyside have reported 30, and Cumbria and Lancashire have reported 14. 74% of confirmed cases are under 5.

Press release issued by Hugh Lamont, Regional Communications Manager, HPA North West (tel. 0151-482-5728 or 07764-906508) or call 0151-482-5736 to speak to Dr. Paul Cleary, Acting Consultant Regional Epidemiologist, HPA North West.

Last reviewed: 27 May 2010