MY DAD LOST HIS SIGHT

John Humphrys, one of Britain’s best known broadcasters, has spoken out about his father’s “horrendous” experience with measles, to highlight the importance of vaccinations.

John revealed how his dad became blind for a long time afterwards. “He never properly regained his sight and he died blind. And it was absolutely horrendous.”

And whether the sunlight was a direct cause or not, NHS clinicians are clear. Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are highly infectious illnesses that can easily spread between unvaccinated people. Complications connected to measles – which include blindness and encephalitis (an infection causing brain swelling and potentially brain damage) – can be potentially life changing.

John, who describes himself as a ‘pro-vaxxer,’ said: “My life has spanned a period in this nation’s history during which the lives of millions have been saved or transformed by the miracle of vaccination.

“I have seen at first hand the terrible price paid by the generation before me.

“George was a typical little 11 year old when he caught measles. By the time my wife and I had our own children, measles had been conquered.

“The MMR vaccine also saw off those other horrible diseases: mumps and rubella. What a triumph for science and humanity.”

Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist with UK Health Security Agency (the body responsible for protecting the population from the impact of infectious diseases), supports John’s view. She has said, “Measles is a nasty illness for most children and for some it can be very serious, but it is completely preventable.

“Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself and your children. If you or your child are not up to date with your two doses of MMR vaccine, please contact your GP to catch up now.”

More Information

If you think your child needs a vaccination, it’s best to speak to your GP surgery to book the appointment. You do not need to wait to hear from them.