Parents advised to get kids MMR jab

16 August 2010, 12:35 | Updated: 16 August 2010, 12:38

Parents on the south coast are being advised by health officials to book their kids in for an MMR jab before the new school term begins.

Dorset PCT and Hampshire NHS say we can't get complacent when it comes to measles, mumps and rubella.

Measles is highly infectious and is easily spread with a cough or sneeze. Also because it is so infectious, if a child has not had two MMR vaccines, it's highly likely that they will get measles if they come into contact with the virus.

It can cause complications such as pneumonia and brain damage and can even prove fatal.

Noeleen McFarland, immunisation co-ordinator for NHS Hampshire told Heart:

"If measles is caught, it can be serious for babies, young children, pregnant women and their families."

Meanwhile the Mumps can result in meningitis and encephalitis and Rubella can lead to congenital rubella syndrome and rubella associated miscarriages.

Parents and carers are being advised to speak with their Health Visitor for advice and information about vaccinations and they should arrange for their child to be vaccinated at their local surgery before they start school in September.