New figures have shown that the amount of people to catch measles has risen by 36% in 2008. The rise from 990 cases in 2007 to 1348 in 2008 is largely due to the increasing amount of children who have not been fully vaccinated with combined MMR.

The MMR vaccine was at the centre of controversy when research suggested it was linked to an increased risk of autism. This research has since been discredited but the effects of the claims continue to be felt. Only around 78% of children are believed to have had the recommended second dose at the age of 5 and the vast majority of the outbreaks have been among those who are not vaccinated. With measles being so contagious this allows the infection to spread easily among those children who have not had MMR.

The good news for those who have yet to be vaccinated is that, according to immunisation expert Dr Mary Ramsay, it is “never too late” to get the MMR vaccine. Dr Ramsay also adds:

“Measles should not be taken lightly as you can never tell who will go on to develop the more serious complications of pneumonia and encephalitis”.

Even for those of you who have had your children vaccinated it’s not a bad idea to ensure your child has a strong immune system. KiddieBoost Natural Immune System Support for children is a natural remedy specifically designed to keep children healthy.  It naturally improves the immune systems of children to allow their body’s to fight disease and infection more effectively. Even if you’re not worried about measles it’s a great supplement to see off those winter colds!

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