PARENTS and carers across the Keighley district are being urged to ensure their children get vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella.

Regional NHS chiefs have issued the plea after a rise in cases prompted a national incident to be declared.

Dr James Thomas, medical director at NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, says: "There is a real risk of a measles outbreak in West Yorkshire – vaccination rates have fallen, and with 27 confirmed cases last year we had the highest number outside of London and the West Midlands.

"Measles is more than just a rash; it is a serious, potentially life-changing condition that spreads very easily. It can lead to severe illness and even death in children. For pregnant women, it can cause premature birth, low birth weight and still births.

"But it is preventable, so if you or your child have not had your MMR jab it's really important that you come forward.

"Two doses of the vaccine are needed for maximum lifelong protection, with the initial dose being given around the child’s first birthday, and then at about three years and four months old.

"However, anyone can catch up at any age."

For more details, visit nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine