Rising cases of measles have prompted a call for young people in Bolton and across the North West to take up the offer of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.

Leading figures in the NHS are urging 16-25-year-olds to catch up on missed doses as part of the next vaccination campaign which is set to kick off today.

The NHS will be reaching out to approximately 450,000 individuals between the ages 16 and 25.

Youngsters will be invited forward via letter and texts for the vaccination at either a pharmacy or their GP surgery.

This comes on the heels of a similar push last year to encourage the vaccination of children aged between five and 11.

This group has a significantly lower uptake compared to the WHO's target of 96 per cent coverage by five year's time.

The North West was the first region in the nation to offer the MMR vaccine through community pharmacies.

Now, the strategy has expanded to include every eligible person between ages five and 25.

As part of this move, the NHS in the North West is increasing the number of pharmacies offering the vaccine, so it becomes easier for locals to get their shots closer to home.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning at NHS England – North West, said: "With cases of measles rising in the North West and nationally, it’s so important that young people have both doses of the MMR vaccine.

“Historically there has been lower uptake of the vaccine in the 16-25 age group, but the NHS has seen evidence that these people are more likely to get seriously ill with measles and are more likely to be hospitalised.

“The MMR vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself, so I would urge anyone aged 16 to 25 who has not had both doses to find their nearest pharmacy offering the MMR vaccine, or contact their GP surgery for an appointment.”

Measles is very infectious and can spread rapidly if people are not protected.

The MMR vaccine is a safe, effective, and long-lasting protection against not just measles, but also mumps and rubella.

Measles does not discriminate by age, and anyone can fall ill at any time.

The early symptoms of measles can include a runny nose and cough, often mistaken for the common cold until a rash forms.

More severe symptoms include high fever, sore/red watery eyes, coughing, aching and general unwellness, and finally, a blotchy red-brown rash.

The NHS advises anyone who develops these symptoms to contact their GP surgery by phone.

It is important not to visit a GP, walk-in centre, or any other healthcare setting without calling ahead to prevent the potential spread of the infection.

Anyone uncertain about their MMR vaccination status can check on the NHS app or contact their GP surgery.