**
In a poignant reminder of the dangers posed by measles, Jo Walton recounts the tragic journey of her daughter, Sarah, who succumbed to a rare complication of the virus 45 years after contracting it as an infant. As a new outbreak of measles emerges in northeast London, Walton is passionately advocating for parents to ensure their children receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to prevent similar tragedies.
A Life Altered by a Preventable Illness
At just 11 months old, Sarah Walton was too young to receive the MMR vaccine when she caught measles at nursery. Fortunately, she recovered without any immediate complications and led a fulfilling life, excelling in academics and sports. However, two decades later, Sarah developed subacute sclerosing pan-encephalitis (SSPE), a rare but devastating neurological condition linked to the measles virus. This condition, which affects approximately 1 in 50,000 measles cases, gradually robbed her of her ability to walk, talk, and eat.
Jo Walton’s heartbreak deepened when she realised the full impact of the illness, which culminated in Sarah’s death at the age of 45. “Sarah fought valiantly for two decades,” Jo reflected. “She deserved her wings. We miss her every single day and night.”
The Current Measles Outbreak
As the UK faces a concerning rise in measles cases, particularly among children under 10 in London, Jo Walton’s story highlights the urgent need for increased vaccination rates. Currently, over 60 cases have been reported in Enfield, attributed to unvaccinated children and the spread of misinformation about vaccines. Public health officials stress that measles poses significant health risks, including encephalitis and lifelong disabilities.
According to data from the UK Health Security Agency, since 2009, three children and three adults have died from SSPE. The condition typically manifests five to 15 years after a measles infection, primarily in young children. Jo’s plea is clear: “It is possible to prevent your child from suffering or even dying as a result of measles. Our experience should serve as a warning to all parents.”
The Importance of Vaccination
Vaccination remains the most effective method to combat measles and its complications. The MMR vaccine, which is administered to children aged over 12 months, not only protects against measles but also against mumps and rubella. The NHS advises parents to seek medical advice if they suspect their child may have measles, as early intervention can be crucial.
Organisations such as Encephalitis International are actively campaigning to raise awareness about SSPE and its symptoms. Their initiative, named Flames, serves as a mnemonic to help the public recognise potential warning signs, including flu-like symptoms, loss of consciousness, acute headaches, memory issues, emotional changes, and seizures.
Why it Matters
The story of Sarah Walton serves as a harrowing reminder of the lingering consequences of measles and the critical importance of vaccination. As outbreaks occur and misinformation spreads, it is vital for parents to understand that vaccines are not just personal health choices; they are essential for community safety. By ensuring children are vaccinated, we can prevent devastating illnesses like SSPE and protect future generations from the tragic outcomes of preventable diseases.
