People are being urged to get vaccinated against measles as cases across the UK rise.

West Sussex County Council has advised people to protect themselves and their loved ones against the illness which can have "serious and sometimes fatal consequences".

The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine should be given to children as routine but can be given at any age.

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The NHS said the three infections can spread easily between people and can lead to serious problems including meningitis, blindness and hearing loss.

A county council spokesman said: "Measles can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences and is still common in many countries worldwide.

"Before you travel, make sure you and your loved ones are up to date with MMR vaccinations."

The main symptoms of measles are a high temperature, a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a cough, red, sore, watery eyes, spots in the mouth and a rash.