Express & Star comment: Vaccination rumours do not help us

Doctors are in a spin as what amount to urban myths, unsupported by medical evidence, spread like wildlife and parents decide not to immunise their youngsters.

Little wonder, then, that the number of cases is increasing, creating a dangerous trend at a time when such diseases ought to have become a thing of the past. A huge amount of medical research has gone into proving the safety of such vaccinations. And the positive benefits are clear for all to see as youngsters lead healthier lives and avoid the disastrous long-term effects that can arise.

Two things ought to become a top priority. Firstly, more must be done to educate parents on the benefits of vaccinations for children. Or, perhaps more importantly, the effects of not being vaccinated must be made clear. Youngsters can suffer real damage by skipping the programme.

The second thing that ought to happen is this. Our medical professionals must look at the reasons for a fall off in vaccination rates and deduce what they should do in the digital age to prevent a further reduction. They must have better techniques for engaging with vulnerable groups of those likely to fall through the net. And they must continue to put the needs of children first, finding ways of debunking any myths that take hold among parents whose groundless fears and paranoia can cause difficulty for others.

They must look at the demograph in particular areas, taking into account such factors as culture, religion and more, ensuring kids aren’t disadvantaged by parents who may be reticent.

In the final analysis, parents should accept the NHS guidance that MMR is a safe and effective combined vaccine that protects against three separate illnesses – measles, mumps and rubella (German measles) – in a single injection. The full course of MMR vaccination requires two doses.

Measles, mumps and rubella are highly infectious conditions that can have serious, potentially fatal, complications – including meningitis, swelling of the brain and deafness. They can also lead to complications in pregnancy that can lead to miscarriage.

The message must be driven home that parents have a responsibility to immunise their children.

Air show is cause for big celebration

The forthcoming RAF Cosford Air Show is a cause for celebration.

A remarkable event, it will include an action-packed six-hour flying display, including powerful demonstrations of modern military aircraft from the Royal Air Force and international partners.

There will be captivating appearances from iconic vintage aircraft from throughout the history of aviation and adrenaline pumping aerobatic displays. Ground-based pyrotechnics will also add to the excitement. It promises to be pure box office.

Air shows have faced a tough time in recent years, in part because of the terrible events at Horsham Air Show in 2015 and also because it must compete with so many other events.

And yet the Cosford display has remained popular and relevant. Huge crowds attend each year.

It reminds us of our proud military heritage and it provides breathtaking family entertainment for people of all ages. It is a magnificent event that many can start to look forward to.