Health chiefs issue measles warning to holidaymakers as cases rise globally

With the start of the school holidays, parents and carers in Leeds are being urged to ensure their children have an up-to-date Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, as measles cases rise nationally and internationally.

The uptake of routine childhood vaccinations has been decreasing over the last ten years, with similar trends observed in West Yorkshire.

Health chiefs are concerned that low MMR vaccination rates could lead to further cases emerging, particularly given the high numbers of people mixing and travelling during the holidays.  

Measles is a serious disease which can spread easily among unvaccinated people. Babies, children, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk.

The disease can lead to hospitalisation and in rare cases, death. Symptoms typically begin with cold-like signs, such as a high temperature, a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, coughing, and red, sore, watery eyes.

A few days later, small white spots may appear inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips. This is followed by a rash that usually starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.

Victoria Eaton, Leeds City Council’s director of public health, said: “As we enter the summer holidays, we want everyone to enjoy the season safely and in good health.

“This year outbreaks have been seen in several European countries, including France, Italy, Spain and Germany and the World Health Organisation recently reported that Pakistan, India, Thailand, Indonesia and Nigeria currently have among the highest number of measles cases worldwide.

“These are places where people may be going on holiday or travelling to visit family and friends.

“Checking your family’s MMR vaccination status is a simple but important step in protecting your loved ones and the wider community.

“If you’re unsure whether you or your child are fully vaccinated, please contact your GP to check your records and arrange vaccination, especially if you’re planning to travel over the summer break.”

The MMR vaccine, which is usually given to children around their first birthday and again at 3 years 4 months offers the best protection against measles. Two doses provide long-lasting immunity.

Councillor Fiona Venner, Leeds City Council's executive member for equalities, health and wellbeing, said:  “We want everyone to enjoy their holidays but checking your child is fully vaccinated against measles before you go will ensure you and your child are protected and safe.

“It’s never too late to get the vaccine, even if you have missed a first, or second dose. A non-porcine version of the MMR vaccine is also available - however, you may need to request this from your GP practice ahead of vaccination.

“If you think you or your child has measles, phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice. To reduce the risk of spreading it to others, please avoid contact with other people. Call ahead first before attending any healthcare settings.”

For more information on measles, and the MMR vaccine, visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles/. 

Watch a video of Dr Naveed from the UKHSA providing measles travel advice.   

ENDS

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