The HPA has reminded parents of the importance of MMR injections.
There has been a sharp rise in the number of people suffering from measles in the UK, leading to the Health Protection Agency (HPA) reminding parents of the importance of the MMR vaccine.
According to the body, which was set up in 2003, a recent spate of the illness is probably due to people bringing it into the UK when they have been holidaying in Europe.
It could therefore be of utmost importance anyone planning breaks to the continent ensure they have been given the MMR vaccine.
Dr Mary Ramsay, head of the immunisation department at the HPA, said: "Measles is a highly infectious and dangerous illness which spreads very easily particularly in schools and universities. It is crucial that children and young adults are fully immunised with two doses of MMR."
She added that it is never too late for people to make sure they are up to date with their vaccinations.
"We cannot stress enough that measles is serious and in some cases it can be fatal. Delaying immunisation puts children at risk," added the doctor.
The HPA revealed that between January and April 2011, there have been 275 reported cases of measles, compared to just 33 for the corresponding period from the previous year.
This comes shortly after the organisation noted that there is a growing trend for Britons travelling abroad to be affected by dengue fever.
According to the body, more than 400 cases of the illness were reported in 2010, which is over twice the number recorded in the previous year.
By Anne Jones
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