Health officials in England are urging parents to ensure their children are up to date with vaccinations before returning to school, amid concerns of a rise in measles cases.

The uptake of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, has increased in many areas following recent outbreaks but still falls short of targets.

Children can also be vaccinated against other serious diseases like whooping cough, meningitis, diphtheria, and polio.

Davina Barrett from Walsall described the severe illness of her three-month-old son, Ezra, who contracted measles, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations.

Ezra was hospitalized with breathing difficulties and pneumonia caused by the virus.

Health experts warn that even one measles case in a school can lead to a surge in infections, especially since very young children, like Ezra, are particularly vulnerable.

Two doses of the MMR vaccine, administered at one year and at three years, four months, are recommended for best protection.

While vaccination rates have improved, with significant increases in previously unvaccinated children, the overall rate still lags behind the 95% target.

Parents can arrange MMR vaccinations through their GP and should check their child’s vaccination status in their red book.

Measles spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and breathing.

Early symptoms resemble a cold, including high temperature, runny nose, and red, watery eyes, followed by a rash starting on the face and spreading to the body.

Severe complications from measles can include meningitis, seizures, and blindness.

Parents are advised to seek urgent medical advice if their child is very young or severely ill with measles symptoms.