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Devastating Measles: Mum's Warning After Son's Near-Fatal Illness
27 Feb
Summary
- London toddler nearly died from measles, a preventable Victorian-era illness.
- Measles cases in England surged over 21% last week, with London hit hardest.
- Low MMR vaccine uptake below 95% herd immunity threshold fuels outbreak.
A London mother's harrowing experience with her son's near-fatal measles infection serves as a stark warning about the resurgence of this dangerous disease. Lenny-George fell critically ill with measles, an illness his mother, Hannah Steppel, had previously dismissed as a historical ailment.
The toddler was hospitalized and doctors indicated he might not survive the night, underscoring the severity of measles complications. This incident occurs amidst a significant measles outbreak in England, with cases rising over 21% in the past week, and London reporting over two-thirds of the 158 infections recorded this year.
Despite receiving his first MMR vaccine dose, Lenny-George contracted measles, emphasizing that vaccination is not foolproof but significantly reduces severity. His mother advocates for widespread vaccination, stressing the risk to unvaccinated children and the community.
Nationally, MMR vaccine uptake stands at 84%, below the 95% needed for herd immunity. London's rates are even lower at 70%, leading to projections of up to 160,000 potential infections in the capital. The UK lost its 'measles-free' status earlier this year due to the escalating outbreak.
