PARENTS in the Isle of Man have once again been reminded of the importance of vaccinating their children against measles.

It follows an outbreak of measles in Merseyside which has seen 13 confirmed cases and 16 suspected cases reported.

From these cases six people have required hospital treatment for the condition.

The Public Health Directorate in the Isle of Man has urged parents to ensure their children are protected as it says measles is not a "trivial childhood infection" and can have long term consequences.

Parents are advised to opt for the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccination and not the single vaccines which are not licensed or approved and which may not offer adequate protection.

Anyone visiting Merseyside this week in the half term holidays is advised to "appreciate the risk for your child" and be aware of potential symptoms including fever and a skin rash.

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