In a desperate plea, a mother whose baby is battling measles urges parents to vaccinate their children. Margot House, a five-month-old, contracted the highly contagious virus while receiving treatment for an allergic reaction at London’s Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.
Margot’s mother, Georgia, watched in anguish as her tiny daughter struggled to breathe with oxygen and feeding tubes. Despite reassurances from doctors, the sight of her baby hooked up to machines was heartbreaking.
Doctors raised concerns about the declining vaccination rates in the UK, emphasizing the importance of herd immunity. Georgia expressed her frustration, stating that “this is all preventable.”
Health officials have recorded a dramatic increase in measles cases, with England facing an emergency. Margot’s case underscores the severity of the virus, which can lead to lifelong disabilities or even death.
The MMR vaccine, available on the NHS, offers protection against measles. Parents are urged to check their child’s Red Book to ensure vaccination status and contact their GP if unsure. Margot’s story is a reminder of the vital role vaccines play in protecting children from preventable diseases.