'Several children seriously unwell in hospital' as Alder Hey issues open letter to parents
Alder Hey Children's Hospital in Liverpool say the youngsters are receiving treatment at the hospital as they issue an open letter to parents warning of an "increase in cases" in the Merseyside area.NHS bosses say the reason for the rise in cases is because fewer people are having the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles as well as two other viruses called mumps and rubella.
The letter - which was also shared by UKHSA and Directors of Public Health for Liverpool, Sefton and Knowsley - said the number of children being treated at Alder Hey for effects and complications of measles is increasing.
It said children in hospital who are "very poorly for another reason", are at higher risk of catching the virus, which spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people.
The letter said: "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 measles?
According to the NHS, measles is caused by highly contagious virus which can infect anyone who is not immune.
Symptoms can be severe and are leading to increasing numbers of children being admitted to our hospital. In rare cases, catching the disease can be fatal.There is no specific treatment. 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 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.
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