Practice Important Information

URGENT NEWS: Rise in UK measles cases causing concern

A "very concerning" rise in the number of people catching measles in the UK has been reported by health officials.

The virus spreads incredibly easily and a fall in vaccination rates is leaving more children vulnerable to infection.

There were 54 cases of measles in the whole of last year. However, there have already been 49 in the first four months of 2023.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging parents to ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date.

The main symptoms of measles are a fever and a rash. But it can cause more serious complications including meningitis, and an infection can be fatal.

That is why the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of routine childhood immunisations.

For further information on how to check if your child has measels please follow this link Measles - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

If your child is not upto date with the MMR Vaccination, which should include two MMR dose's please contact the practice to discuss this further. 

Need to see a doctor? NHS 111 can help

If you need to see a doctor but can’t get to your local practice you may be able to be seen outside of normal practice hours.

Call 111 and if appropriate, the advisor will be able to schedule you an appointment with a GP – it may not be your usual one –  at a local venue. If you could be better treated elsewhere, they will be able to direct you to the best place to suit your needs. 111 is free to call at all times.

Experiencing a mental health problem?

If you are affected by a mental health issues over the bank holidays and are not already known to local mental health services, or call 111. If you are a service user already, you can access services via your Community Mental Health Team or the out of hours GP service. 

Emergency care

If you or someone you are with finds themselves in a life-threatening situation call 999 and ask for an ambulance. You will be taken to most appropriate place for your needs which in some case may not be your nearest hospital.