Just before the UK's schools reopen next Monday, the UKHSA has sent out an urgent warning to all citizens.

A'very terrible' sickness is predicted to resurface, therefore the UK Health Security Agency is advising parents to get their children vaccinated before they return to school on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

The UKHSA and NHS England are'reminding parents and caregivers' about 'the risk of their children losing out' on protection against'serious diseases' such as whooping cough, meningitis, diphtheria, polio, and measles.

The statement added, "Measles spreads very easily among the unvaccinated, especially in schools and nurseries." This can be a very severe infection that, in certain situations, is quite serious enough to put a child in the hospital, cause lifelong difficulties, and, in the worst cases, even result in death.

The UKHSA added: "Since Autumn 23 there have been a number of major measles outbreaks in the West Midlands, North West and London with sporadic cases across the country - resulting in the highest number of cases in England since 2012.

"This prompted the launch of wide ranging MMR catch-up activities targeting communities with low uptake led by NHS and other partners between August 23 and April 24, for children who missed measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines."

Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist, said: "As a mum and doctor it is especially tragic to see kids suffering when these diseases are so easily preventable.

"Two MMR jabs offer the best and safest protection against measles. If unvaccinated, children are at risk of serious illness or life-long complications. No parent wants this for their child.

"It is encouraging that parents, whose children have missed vaccines are now coming forward, but we are a long way from ensuring all are protected and safe. And importantly vaccination is also about not spreading the disease to others who may be more vulnerable.

"Measles is still spreading throughout the nation and is extremely contagious. Numbers can quickly soar when one instance enters a school or daycare where a large number of children are left alone.

"Children will be pleading with their parents to have them safeguarded in our campaign, which will be seen across multiple media platforms.

"To make sure their child is up to date on MMR and all other vaccines, parents can consult their child's immunization record in the Red Book. For further information and to arrange for your child's necessary immunizations, get in touch with your general practitioner's office. Act now, please, don't wait."