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The Public Health Agency has issued strong recommendations to parents of pupils at a Co Down school after several cases of the mumps.

The all boys Downpatrick High School has had three confirmed cases of the mumps and some unconfirmed cases which has led to panic amongst parents and pupils.

Dr M Sartaj, Consultant in Health Protection, confirmed the cases in the school and urged parents to vaccinate their children.

He said: "We strongly advise that all pupils at the school are up-to-date with their MMR vacine.

"Children routinely receive their first dose at one year of age and their second dose from three years four months old but there is no upper age limit to receive their vaccinations.

"If your child has not yet received two doses of the MMR vaccine or you are unsure, please arrange for them to receive these through your GP or practice nurse as soon as possible.

"Suspected mumps should be kept away from school until five days after the onset of swelling.

"If you have any concerns or queries, please do not hesitate to contact the Public Health Agency (PHA)."

One parent told Belfast Live that she has been worried for the safety of her son and his peers.

She said: "The recent cases of mumps in the school have really put fear into teachers, parents and the boys.

"It really highlights the importance of getting your children vaccinated when this is made available.

"We are so lucky that we have the opportunity to protect our children from these viruses, and for free.

(Image: Media for Medical/UIG via Getty Images)

"When you think of other countries where there is absolutely no option to do this due to financial issues, so many children are dying and taking seriously ill.

"I rang my son's GP this week just to double check that he was up to date in all of his vaccinations and thankfully he was.

"I think other parents should do this too, to ensure the safety of their children and their friends."

In some cases, measles can cause death, according to PHA. In children aged under two years, one child in 8,000 will develop a fatal degenerative brain condition within eight years of getting measles.

Mumps can cause:

deafness - usually with partial or complete recovery

swollen, painful testicles in older boys and men

miscarriage in pregnant women

meningitis

The symptoms of mumps typically take 14 to 25 days after becoming infected with the virus to appear.

Painful swellings at the side of the face under the ears are the most common symptom of mumps.

The swelling can cause pain, tenderness and difficulty with swallowing.

In about one in three cases, mumps doesn't cause any noticeable symptoms.

Downpatrick SDLP Councillor John Trainor said: “It’s important that parents ensure that young people’s vaccinations are up to date and follow advice given by the school and medical professionals.

"If your child is affected, talk to your local GP about the best course of action to ensure a speedy recovery and that it doesn’t spread to others.”

For more information on measles, mumps and rubella see PHA website.

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