Measles outbreak prompts vaccine reminder

The HSE is urging parents to ensure their children have been given the MMR vaccine as a major outbreak of measles spreads across Europe.

There have been 135 cases of measles in Ireland since the start of 2011, with over 70% arising in Dublin's north inner city.

Over 26,000 cases have been recorded across Europe in the same period, with six child fatalities.

The MMR vaccine is given in two jabs - the first at a year old, followed by a booster when children are aged four or five.

Dr. Margaret Fitzgerald, HSE Director of Public Health, said it is vital that children's vaccinations against measles are up to date.

"Measles is a highly infectious and dangerous illness and it spreads very easily which is why it is so worrying," she said.

"We had a major outbreak here in the year 2000 in Dublin where we saw up to 1,600 cases, and unfortunately three children lost their lives."