Public health bosses are urging families in the region to stay ahead of the curve amid "localised outbreaks" of measles.

Norfolk's public health chiefs have alerted childcare providers about the prevalence of measles in other parts of the county, in a bid to help keep families informed.

In these messages, bosses have emphasised the importance of keeping both adults and children up to date with measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations.

It comes following warnings from the UK Health Security Agency over an "alarming rise" in cases of measles across Europe.

Weekly data from UKHSA has shown that 144 suspected cases were reported nationwide in the two weeks leading up to January 14.

The biggest rise in cases came in the West Midlands, where 36 cases were reported in a week.

In 2023, there were 1,603 suspected cases of measles in England and Wales, according to UKHSA statistics published earlier this year.

And while there are no confirmed cases in Norfolk, public health leaders are keen for the county to stay ahead of the curve.

A spokesman for public health in Norfolk said: "Measles can be a serious disease.

"We would encourage parents to protect their children by ensuring they have had both doses of the MMR vaccine - which can protect them for life."

Sarah Weir, consultant in health protection at UKHSA East said: "As we have seen an increase of measles cases in other parts of the country, this is a timely reminder for everyone to check the vaccination records of their children and young adults in their red books.

"The MMR vaccine is our best protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

"Two doses are required for maximum effect so if you have only had one dose, please contact your GP to get booked in for the other."