Pressroom
Huge Rise in Mumps Cases
Source: Sunderland Echo (UK)
08/29/2012
The U.K. Health Protection Agency reports that 133 cases of mumps were reported in the North East between April and June, quadruple the number reported a year ago. More than half of the cases have been reported in 14- to 24-year-olds. Julia Waller, immunization lead for the HPA in the North East, said: “We have seen a sharp rise in mumps cases over recent years, and teenagers and young adults who have not had two doses of MMR vaccine are particularly vulnerable.” Waller noted the importance of receiving both doses of MMR, adding that “ahead of returning to school or university after the holidays, we are urging parents to ensure their children have received the two doses, which are required to ensure the best protection.”
