Twenty more measles cases in Swansea outbreak
Twenty new cases of measles have been reported as the outbreak in the Swansea area continues.
Public Health Wales is continuing to urge parents to ensure their children receive the MMR vaccination as it investigates the new cases in the Swansea and Neath Port Talbot area.
The new cases bring the total number of cases to 209. The majority of the latest infections are in the Swansea area.
Dr Marion Lyons, Director of Health Protection for Public Health Wales, said that "measles is a very contagious disease."
– Dr Marion Lyons, Director of Health Protection for Public Health WalesAll children who have not been fully immunised face a life-long risk of catching measles.
Most people make a full recovery but there is a rare possibility of severe complications including serious eye disorders, deafness, brain damage and even death.
Measles can be prevented by use of the safe and highly effective measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Parents can easily protect their children by having them immunised with the MMR vaccine. After completing a two-dose course of MMR, 99 per cent of children will be protected against measles.
Parents of all children aged between one and 18 who have not been fully vaccinated are being advised to contact their GP for advice and to get their child vaccinated as soon as possible.
More top news
Mark Bridger gives evidence at Mold Crown Court
The 47-year-old gave his account of what happened to April Jones, but denied her abduction and murder.
Campaign to save Royal Glamorgan Hospital services
A consultation has been launched on the future of some major health services in south and south-east Wales.
Controversial health proposals announced
Areas including A&E care, children's services, and maternity and neonatal care could be affected. A consultation has been launched.