A major national charity which cares for people disabled by rubella (German measles) is concerned that the failure to provide children with the MMR vaccination could harm unborn babies.

Sense, a residential care home charity looking after many people who are profoundly disabled as a result of the rubella epidemics of the 1950s to 1970s, argues that single vaccinations would put an increased number of children at risk of catching rubella and passing it on to unprotected pregnant women.

It could leave babies born with congenital rubella syndrome, a condition which blinds and deafens children as well as leaving them with heart and developmental difficulties.

Malcolm Matthews, director of communications at Sense, said: "We realise that parents want to make the best decision for their child about MMR.

"We're a family based organisation and we understand very clearly that parents are keen to protect their children and provide them with the best care possible, which does often mean being aware of and acting on the best medical evidence available.

"But we are extremely worried that parents currently deciding about MMR are not taking account of the evidence about the dangers of rubella."

Sense says that many articles in the media have neglected to include vital information on the effects of rubella and the risks it poses.

Mr Matthews said: "There is a large body of evidence to show that MMR is highly effective and only rarely causes serious side effects. This includes research and experience over 30 years in the US and 20 years in Scandinavia.

"Research that has raised concerns does not demonstrate that MMR is unsafe. Until and unless there is such evidence it would be a disaster if immunisation levels fall.

"The result will be many children born deaf and blind and yet this could have been avoided."

If you require more information about Sense and its views on the MMR vaccination log on to www.sense.org.uk or contact Malcolm Matthews on 7272 7774.