A child has died from measles at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, amid a surge in cases of the highly contagious virus. The hospital is “concerned” about the increase and attributes it to fewer people getting vaccinated against measles.
Since June, 17 children and young people have been treated for complications of measles at the hospital. Measles can cause severe illness requiring hospitalization, and in rare cases, death.
Experts say the decline in vaccine uptake is partly to blame for the surge in measles cases. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Public Health directors warn that fewer vaccinations against measles, mumps, and rubella are leading to more cases among children and young people.
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health report found that routine childhood vaccination coverage has stalled over the last decade, putting youngsters at risk of measles and other diseases. The MMR vaccine has been available through the NHS for years but uptake is low in some areas, including Liverpool.
Experts point to a lack of access as a major reason behind declining vaccine uptake. This can include difficulties accessing health services, lack of information, and misinformation on social media.
Measles cases are not unique to the UK; similar concerns have been raised in the US, where cases reached 1,288 this week, with several deaths reported.
Source: https://news.sky.com/story/uk-measles-cases-rising-among-children-with-leading-nhs-hospital-concerned-13396026