School in measles outbreak alert

Health experts say measles in Lewisham is a "major problem"

A measles outbreak has occurred in a secondary school in south London - months after health experts warned of further outbreaks in the area.

More than 30 probable cases have been detected at Sydenham Secondary School in Lewisham.

Another outbreak happened recently in University Hospital Lewisham where nine children and an adult fell ill.

The total number of cases in Lewisham this year now stands at about 50, the Health Protection Agency (HPA) said.

'Major problem'

Dr Chris Watts from Lewisham Primary Care Trust said: "We have a major problem with measles in Lewisham.

"One of our schools has had 30 probable cases plus six confirmed. We have also had several cases in another school and in the community more widely. We must stop measles spreading."

In some parts of the borough lower than 64% of children are being vaccinated. This is the reason measles is spreading in Lewisham. name here

Uptake of the MMR vaccine in the borough has historically been low, resulting in many unprotected children.

In Lewisham the uptake is 64.3% but the HPA says a target of 95% is needed to prevent transmission.

Michael Corr, Immunisation Clinical Director for Lewisham PCT said: "In some parts of the borough lower than 64% of children are vaccinated. This is the reason measles is spreading in Lewisham."

Parents with children aged between five to 16 who have not been immunised are being advised to take them to their GP.

Immunisation drop-in sessions are also being organised by Lewisham PCT.