13 May 2005 12:37 ~ Edward Jacobs

Doctors warn of mumps epidemic

Doctors are today suggesting that the recent mumps outbreak has reached epidemic levels.

Eeek.

Figures released from the Health Protection Agency show that in the first 17 weeks of this year around 28,500 suspected cases of mumps had been reported across England and Wales, up from 1,800 cases during the same period last year.

People of student age are most at risk because the MMR vaccine was only introduced on a mass scale in 1988, meaning that most missed out on it. With students often gathering in confined spaces such as lecture halls, halls of residence and night clubs, it is perhaps unsurprising that the problem appears to be affecting the student population the most.

Take-up of the vaccination has also been falling following fears over its safety. In 1995, 92% of people eligible had the injection, compared with 80% for the year 2003/2004. The World Health Organisation suggests that in order to prevent an epidemic, 90% of those eligible for the vaccine need to have had it.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, new Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt described the outbreak as "a very real worry". "The most important thing for parents and for young adults who didn't get a vaccination at the normal age is go to the GP, go to the surgery and get the vaccination done now," she said.

In order to be fully protected from mumps, people need to receive two injections: the initial MMR jab, followed later by a booster injection. Current advice from the Department of Health is that it is safe to do so, despite come concerns that the injection might be linked to autism.

Anyone who does not know if they are fully protected or have any concerns should consult their General Practitioner.

More information is available from NHS Direct on 0845 4647, or NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24 in Scotland. Information on mumps can also be found on the NHS Direct website.

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Doctors warn of mumps epidemic

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