The Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) and World Health Organisation (WHO) have issued an alert regarding outbreaks of measles in America. Two small outbreaks of measles in Canada (one each in Quebec and Ontario) have been reported; in the USA cases of measles have been reported in 17 states and Washington DC. There is also an ongoing outbreak of measles in Brazil.
Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases; anyone who is not immune is at risk. Measles is not a 'normal' childhood illness and it can cause many short term and long term complications. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine offers a very high degree of protection. MMR is completely safe and there is no link between MMR and autism.
Advice to the public:
- If you are travelling to America (Canada, USA, Brazil) ensure any child over 6 months has had at least one dose of MMR and older children have appropriate boosters. Any adult who has not received MMR in the past needs to contact their GP to seek advice.
- Check your vaccination status to ensure that your children are seen by the practice nurse well ahead of the planned travel. This will allow time for vaccination and for full protection to develop before travel.
- Depending on your travel destination your GP/practice nurse will also be able to advise you on the need for other vaccines/medication and again, ensure you allow adequate time for this by making an early appointment.
- Be familiar with the signs and symptoms of measles (fever, skin rash, cough, runny nose, red eyes, joint pain) and if anyone develops these, seek medical advice.
