MORE parents in Worcestershire are opting to give their youngsters the combined MMR vaccine than in many other areas throughout the country, despite the presence of a single jab clinic in the city.

Latest public health figures show more than 87 per cent of children in the county are being given the combined jab, compared to 83 per cent nationally.

The high figure is despite the existence of the Desumo clinic in Worcester, which offers parents the choice of giving their children three individual MMR vaccines to protect them against measles, mumps and rubella.

The two mothers who run the clinic are among many who believe the combined vaccine causes problems, including bowel disorders, autism and epilepsy.

But public health bosses are warning the above average uptake still leaves unacceptable numbers of children at risk.

Dr Alan Tweddell, consultant in communicable disease control for South Worcestershire Primary Care Trust, said: "We are reasonably pleased with the figures, as the uptake in Worcestershire is three to four per cent higher than the national average."

"It is high enough to protect against major outbreaks, but will not protect against smaller outbreaks.

"We would like to see the level higher than this, but it does prove the majority of parents are opting to have the combined MMR."

He added that a number of outbreaks of measles in London had been caused by parents not vaccinating their children at all.

Anyone wanting information about the Desumo clinic should call 01531 631642.