Another outbreak in England and Wales has raised the concerns and worries of the health officials in the region and it is none other than the measles attack.

The figures released from the Health Protection Agency have confirmed that the cases of measles have almost doubled in England and Wales in only the first six months of 2012 as compared to the last year’s figures.

According to the referred data, 964 measles cases have been reported during this year’s first six months whereas the number of cases was 497 in the first half of 2011.

Considering the issue crucial, the HPA has already started urging parents to get their children vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) to avoid their ward from being affected. Schools will begin in September and thus the authority has requested the parents to take the actions prior sending their child to school.

Measles is a serious illness, which can cause complications like meningitis and brain inflammation. Pregnant women are also at high risks of measles because catching the disease during pregnancy can born their babies with birth defects.

Dr. Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at the Health Protection Agency, said: "Measles can be very serious and parents should understand the risks associated with the infection, which in severe cases can result in death."