Since the beginning of this year there have been 43 confirmed cases of measles in Croydon.

Following an increase in cases across Europe the council is urging people to get their children vaccinated against the highly infectious disease.

Croydon Council is also calling on young people heading off to university to check they have been vaccinated.

Public Health England has confirmed there have been 43 cases of laboratory confirmed cases in the borough and a total 807 in England. The most cases were reported in London with 281.

A Croydon Council spokesman said: “We are aware about the increased numbers of measles across Europe and have been working closely with schools, parents and carers and other partners over the last six months  to promote the benefits of vaccination.

“Measles is a highly infectious but easily preventable disease. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the safest way to protect against measles. For the best protection from measles people need two doses of the safe and effective vaccine.

“If your child has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine you can contact your GP surgery or practice nurse to get an appointment.

"You can check with your GP surgery if you are not sure whether they have had two doses.”

Anyone who is not sure if they are vaccinated can check with their GP.

In a bid to curb the spread of the infection Croydon Council is calling on young people getting ready to head of to university next month to check whether they have been vaccinated.