Health bosses are warning people to ensure they have up-to-date vaccinations after a rubella outbreak at Essex University.

Forty cases of German measles have been confirmed at the Wivenhoe campus since January.

The majority of those affected were Greek students who have recently arrived in the UK and do not benefit from routine immunisation back home. Several Russian students also contracted the infection.

Dr Louise Teare, director of the Chelmsford public health laboratory, which advises Essex Rivers Healthcare Trust in north Essex, said: "We have in the past seen cases of infections like this amongst students arriving from other countries in which vaccination coverage is relatively low.

"Universities and their GPs should check the immunisation history of new students, particularly those arriving from abroad, and offer vaccination where appropriate."

For most people, rubella is a mild infection but it poses a higher risk to pregnant women.

The outbreak at Essex University has prompted doctors and health bosses to reiterate the importance of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine (MMR).

Dr Teare added: "Most 18 to 21-year-olds in this country will be protected against rubella. However older students and anyone else who is unsure of their vaccination status can consult their GP."

A spokeswoman for Essex University confirmed there had been a small outbreak, but all affected students were treated successfully.

"We have been monitoring it and all students have been encouraged to join the university health centre as GPs do check immunisation history of students," she said.

"Those who had it did not suffer any long-term effects."

Following adverse publicity about the MMR jab in 1997 and 1998, coverage dropped to 91 per cent in mid-Essex and 88 per cent in north Essex. To avoid outbreaks of infection, the uptake must improve.

Dr Gail Bridgman, immunisation co-ordinator for Mid Essex Health District, said: "MMR offers protection against diseases that have significant complications and we would urge all parents to have their children vaccinated.

"Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to or contracted rubella should contact their GP.

"It is particularly important that pregnant women seek medical attention if they come into contact with someone with a rash."

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