GPs urge people to get protected
LEADING GPs and public health experts in Cumbria are calling on more people to get protected in the wake of the recent damming verdict on the research which led to the MMR controversy.
Dr Andrew Wakefield's 1998 Lancet study linking the jab to autism caused vaccination rates to plummet, resulting in a rise in measles - but the findings were later discredited.
The General Medical Council ruled last week that he had acted "dishonestly and irresponsibly" in doing his research.
Clinicians in the county hope the ruling will prompt more people who qualify for vaccinations to get protected.
Dr Peter Weaving, one of NHS Cumbria's lead GPs, said: "Take-up rates for the MMR vaccine have gradually recovered since Dr Wakefield first made his claims but there are still a lot of people in the county who aren't protected from a number of common infections who could be.
"It is upsetting to see kids and adults in the surgery, sometimes quite unwell, with illnesses such as measles and mumps which are now wholly preventable.
"I would strongly urge anyone who qualifies for a vaccination to make sure they get their jab, and get protected."
Dr Nigel Calvert, associate director for public health at NHS Cumbria, said: "Walk around any graveyard in Cumbria and you will see the names of children who a hundred years ago died from diseases which are now preventable thanks to medical advancements in vaccines.
"It is crucially important that if you are invited for a jab that can protect you or your family from measles, mumps rubella, swine flu or any other avoidable illness, not to leave it to chance: take it up."
Information on the range of immunisations and vaccinations available can be found at http://www.immunisation.nhs.uk/
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Tuesday 22 May 2012
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