BRADFORD district has seen a spate of infectious diseases, new figures show.

Whooping cough, scarlet fever and tuberculosis are amongst those recently diagnosed.

The UK Health Security Agency records statistics on infectious diseases notified by healthcare providers during six-week periods.

Latest figures from registered medical practitioners across England and Wales cover the period up to May 12.

In West Yorkshire, 11 out of 39 cases of whooping cough – a bacterial infection of the lungs and breathing tubes – were recorded in Bradford district.

Whooping cough can spread very easily and sometimes lead to serious problems.

Vaccinations are available for high-risk patients including babies and children.

Due to the nature of whooping cough, the NHS website advises people to phone their GP before going into their surgery. The patient may be offered an appointment over the phone.

There were also four cases of scarlet fever registered in the district as well as three cases of tuberculosis, also known as TB.

Scarlet fever, a contagious infection that mostly affects young children, is easily treated with antibiotics.

The first signs of scarlet fever can be flu-like symptoms, including a high temperature, a sore throat and swollen neck glands – a large lump on the side of your neck.

Meanwhile TB is caused by bacteria that is spread through the air when people cough, sneeze or spit. It most often affects the lungs.

Common symptoms of TB include a cough that lasts more than three weeks – you may cough up mucus or mucus with blood in it, and suffer fatigue, a high temperature or night sweats.

Other symptoms include loss of appetite, weight loss and feeling generally unwell.

The data also reported one case of measles and two cases of food poisoning.

Sarah Muckle, director of public health at Bradford Council, said: “The number of cases of infectious diseases across West Yorkshire fluctuates week-on-week but it is concerning that we are seeing cases of illnesses such as measles, rubella and whooping cough which are preventable through immunisations such as the MMR and six-in-one.

“We are actively working with partners in the NHS to engage with our communities and promote vaccinations against preventable diseases. For instance a new infant health campaign is launching across the district.

“Should anyone develop symptoms, they should speak to their GP or call 111 if out of hours. They should only go straight to A&E if severely ill.”