Measles cases 'almost double' after outbreaks

There have been almost twice the number of measles cases in England and Wales in the first six months of this year compared with the same period last year, official figures show.

There are currently significant measles outbreaks in Merseyside and Sussex.

The agency is urging parents to ensure children are up to date with their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations before the school begins.

Doctor Mary Ramsay is head of immunisations at the HPA.