You may have seen news stories about the increase in measles cases across the UK recently. We often think of measles as an illness that no longer affects us in the UK. But because of several years of low vaccine uptake, measles is now on the rise again.
If you are worried that you or someone in your family has measles, please do not visit the doctor or hospital. Measles can be easily spread, so it is important to avoid contact with others.
Please ring the surgery for advice.
How measles can be prevented
The only protection against measles is the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR). The MMR vaccine is a free, safe, and effective vaccine which protects you from catching and spreading measles. Having the 2 doses of MMR vaccine gives you the best protection.
It's given as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme. The first dose is given at 1-year-old and the second dose is given at around 3 years and 4 months old.
Children and adults can catch up on any missed vaccines. If you're not sure if you and your children have had the MMR vaccine, please check your online GP records, NHS app or red book. If you or your children have not had the MMR vaccine, please contact your GP to arrange this - it's free.
There are 2 different types of MMR vaccine available in the UK. Some vaccines are made using pork gelatine in very small amounts. The Priorix MMR vaccine does not contain pork gelatine, this can be requested from the GP and is free.
Symptoms of measles
Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms followed by a rash a few days later.
The first symptoms of measles include:
- a high temperature
- a runny or blocked nose
- sneezing
- a cough
- red, sore, watery eyes
Follow the NHS advice if you think you or your child has measles. You should contact your GP and ask for an urgent appointment or get help from NHS 111 as soon as possible, letting them know that you think you or your child has measles.
Remember, it's best to phone your GP surgery rather than visit, as measles is very infectious and it could be passed on to others.
If your doctor says you have measles
If your doctor says you have measles:
- Avoid close contact with babies, pregnant women and anyone with a weakened immune system.
- Stay off work, school or nursery for at least 4 days from when the rash first appears.
You can reduce the risk of spreading or catching measles by:
- washing your hands often with soap and warm water
- using tissues when you cough or sneeze
- throwing used tissues in the bin
- not sharing cups cutlery, towels, clothes or bedding
- keeping frequently touched surfaces clean