It is a very infectious disease. It can spread very quickly if people are not vaccinated against it.
Measles can be very easily spread by close contact with people who have the measles germ.
Droplets containing the germ leave the body when someone carrying measles speaks, breathes, coughs or sneezes.
Measles is then passed on when droplets containing the germ are breathed in by another person, or if someone touches a surface covered in the droplets, and then touch their eyes nose or mouth.
Anyone of any age can become infected with the measles germ. Vaccination is the best way to prevent becoming infected or passing the virus on to friends and family.
Unborn babies, infants and those with weakened immune systems are particularly at risk of serious health problems if they become infected with measles.
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. Due to years of low vaccine uptake, measles cases are increasing.
How measles can be prevented
Vaccination
The best way to prevent measles is by having 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, you may find this on your online GP records, or red book. If you or your children have not had the MMR vaccine, please contact your GP to arrange this - it's free.
It is important for adults to check their MMR status if they are:
- working with the very young or with people who have weakened immune systems
- about to start college or university
- going to travel abroad
- planning a pregnancy
There are 2 different types of MMR vaccine available in the UK. One of the vaccines does not contain pork gelatine. It can be requested from the GP and is free.
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 and washing your hands
- not sharing cups cutlery, towels, clothes or bedding
- keeping frequently touched surfaces clean