Teenagers urged to check they are immunised against mumps

Teenagers are being urged to double check they have been immunised against mumps after a surge in cases last year.

Data from the Health Protection Agency shows that mumps is particularly common in teens aged between 16 and 18 years of age.

Statistics from the Department of Health show that more than a third of teenagers in this age group don’t realise that measles, mumps or rubella can actually affect them quite badly.

Mumps can cause a fever, headache and painful swollen glands in the face, neck and jaw.

Being immunised against the disease is important because in worst cases it can result in permanent deadness or even viral meningitis.

Director of Immunisation at the Department of Health, Professor David Salisbury said:
“Many young people feel that they are not in danger of catching measles, mumps and rubella, yet because older teenagers will be among those who were not routinely offered the MMR vaccination in childhood, we are seeing a high number of cases, particularly of mumps, within this age group.

“It is a concern that so many are unsure about whether they’ve been vaccinated and I would encourage them to seek advice from their practice nurse or GP. It is never too late to have the MMR vaccine and protect yourself and others against measles, mumps and rubella.”