PARENTS are being urged to make sure their children have up to date vaccinations after a measles outbreak in Europe.

Some 480 five-year-olds in the county have not had their two recommended measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines, according to figures for last year.

The data shows that only 92 per cent of Worcestershire children turning five received their jabs.

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control warns that areas in which fewer than 95 per cent of the population are vaccinated are at a heightened risk of a measles outbreak.

Helen Donovan, the Royal College of Nursing's professional lead for public health, said: "Measles is extremely infectious, especially where large crowds of people gather, such as at festivals or in towns.

"Thanks to vaccination it has become increasingly rare in the UK, but recent increases in infection rates show we can’t be complacent.

"The MMR vaccine is free. Getting immunised is quick and simple – an appointment with your practice nurse will only take a few minutes."

She urged people to make sure their vaccinations are up to date by contacting their GP.

In the UK, babies usually receive the first MMR jab within a month of turning one, while the second is usually given after their third birthday.

Children who missed their jabs can still get them free on the NHS.

The number of measles cases in the UK this year is already triple the amount of 2017.