PEOPLE in Oxfordshire are being urged to make sure they are properly protected against measles following an outbreak across the South East.

Public Health England has issued the warning after 128 new cases across the region between January 1 and May 31.

The increase is mainly associated with travel to and from Europe where there are large ongoing measles outbreaks.

And while there have been no recorded cases in Oxfordshire, PHE is till urging families in the county to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.

PHE South East Health Protection consultant Rachel Mearkle said: “While we have not had an outbreak in Oxfordshire there are a number of outbreaks across the South East.

"It is worth people taking time to make sure they and their family are properly protected and making themselves aware of symptoms.

“Measles is extremely infectious and not just a childhood illness but can affect anyone at any age."

She added: “It is really important that anyone, even adults, who hasn’t already had two doses of the MMR vaccine contacts their GP surgery for an appointment to get vaccinated.”

People have been urged to remain vigilant for the symptoms, including high fever; sore, red, watery eyes; coughing; aching and feeling generally unwell, and a blotchy red brown rash, which usually appears after the initial symptoms.