Measles outbreak: An open letter to parents and carers in Merseyside

An open letter to parents and carers in Merseyside from Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) and Directors of Public Health for Liverpool, Sefton and Knowsley

A recent increase in measles cases in Merseyside is putting children and young people at risk within our communities and our hospital. Several children are seriously unwell and receiving treatment at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital.

Measles is on the rise amongst our children. We can all help stop it. Get vaccinated now.

What is the current situation with measles in Merseyside?

We are seeing an increase in measles cases in Merseyside with more of our local children and young people becoming ill.

We are seeing more cases of measles in our children and young people because fewer people are having the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles and two other viruses called Mumps and Rubella.

The number of children being treated at Alder Hey for effects and complications of measles is increasing. Children in hospital who are very poorly for another reason, are at higher risk of catching the virus.

What is measles?

Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus which can infect anyone who isn’t immune. Symptoms can be severe and are leading to increasing numbers of children being admitted to our hospitals. In rare cases, catching the disease can be fatal. There is no specific treatment for measles.

Anyone can catch measles at any age. Measles is particularly dangerous for some of our most vulnerable children and young people, including those under one year of age and those already battling other serious illnesses like cancer.

Measles usually starts with a runny nose, sneezing, coughing and a high temperature. It may also cause red, sore eyes. The measles rash follows a few days later, starting on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.

How can I prevent my child from catching measles?

The MMR vaccination is the safest and best defence against measles.

This vaccine has been available for many years and is proven to be safe. Two doses of the MMR vaccine will give lifelong protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

The vaccination is free and easily available from your GP at any age. For children, the first dose of the vaccine is typically given at 12 months of age, and the second at around three years and four months.

Studies have shown there is no link between receiving the vaccine and developing autism spectrum disorders.

Missed Vaccinations

Has your child or young person missed a vaccination? Find out about catch up clinics.

If you’re not sure, check with your GP or use the NHS App. It’s never too late to catch up and you can’t be over vaccinated.

Further information

You can find further information on MMR and other childhood vaccinations on the NHS website. There is also a specific section on measles for anyone wanting more information on the disease. 

Sent on behalf of:

Alfie Bass, Medical Director, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust

Nathan Askew, Chief Nurse, Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust

Professor Matthew Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool Council

Margaret Jones, Director of Public Health for Sefton Council

Dr. Sarah McNulty, Director of Public Health for Knowsley Council

Dr. Merav Kliner, Regional Deputy Director from UKHSA North West.