CONTROVERSY about the combined MMR vaccine for babies has seen immunisation levels in Redditch drop below target, writes Julian Seva.

Parents' fears of a link between the measles, mumps and rubella jab and autism and bowel disease have seen vaccination rates drop to 93.7 per cent since 1998.

And at one point in the last year, it dropped as low as 88 per cent.

Dr Alan Tweddell, immunisation co-ordinator for Worcestershire Health Authority, said in reality the figures could be even lower because records only show the number of children who have been vaccinated at 24 months.

Health authorities aim for a 95 per cent vaccination rate in children aged 15 months.

But figures in Redditch are higher than the average of 87.7 per cent.

The debate was plunged into further confusion when top consultant gastroenterologist Dr Andrew Wakefield, of London's Royal Free Hospital, said there was not adequate evidence of the jab's safety.

But health officials in Redditch are adamant parents should continue to have their children immunised, citing research which has found 'no link' between the jab and autism and bowel disease.

Redditch Primary Care Group chief officer Sue Jenkins said: "My view is all the evidence is to the effect that MMR is safe to give to a child. I have given it to my child.

"I appreciate parents have fears but they should read the evidence, which is available on the internet.

"The danger of getting one of these diseases, like measles, is much higher than anything else."

Jade Palmer, whose daughter, Tasmin, is three months old, said: "There is conflicting advice at the moment, so parents are confused.

"But I think that unless something more is known in the next few months, I will go ahead with the injection because I think the chances of getting measles is higher.

"I am worried though, because you would never forgive yourself if something happened."