Top doctors have raised the alarm over a ‘big’ measles outbreak at schools in one major UK city as parents were urged to check if their children are up to date with all vaccinations
Parents have been warned to be on the lookout for measles symptoms after dozens of schoolchildren were struck down in a major UK city.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said over 60 cases were reported in schools and nurseries in north-east London between January 1 and February 9 – with the infections leaving some children needing hospital treatment. The outbreak is mostly affecting children under 10 who have not been vaccinated, the agency’s top doctors said, as they warned that the upcoming half term Easter holidays could see further cases imported from abroad.
Here are the main symptoms of measles in children:
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles is a serious, highly infectious viral illness that can spread very easily among people who are not fully vaccinated.
While many people recover, the illness can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation. In some cases, it can cause long-term disability or even death.
According to the NHS, the symptoms of measles usually present in three stages. The first sign of infection is a ‘cold-like illness’, which can include:
- a high temperature
- a runny or blocked nose
- sneezing
- a cough
- red, sore, watery eyes
Small white spots may appear inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips a few days later, and will usually last a few days.
A distinctive measles rash – which is red or brown on lighter skin – usually appears a few days after the cold-like symptoms. This rash starts on the face and behind the ears, before spreading to the rest of the body.
If you think you or your child may have measles, and you are not vaccinated, you should ask for an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111.
How do I protect my child from getting measles?
The only effective way to protect you and your family from measles is by having a full course of vaccinations. Studies consistently show that around 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to the measles virus will contract the disease.
Since January 1, the new MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox) vaccine is now offered to all young children on the NHS. The traditional MMR vaccine is recommended for adults and older children if they were not vaccinated when they were younger.
If you or your child has missed vaccinations against measles, speak to your GP.
Easter holidays could cause another surge
Top doctors are warning that the half-term holidays could cause another spike in cases – and are reminding parents to check that their children are up to date with their vaccinations if heading abroad.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said: “Our latest data shows we are now seeing a big measles outbreak in north-east London, mostly affecting unvaccinated children under 10 in schools and nurseries, with some being hospitalised.
“Measles is a nasty illness for any child, but for some it can lead to long-term complications and tragically death, but is so easily preventable with two doses of the MMRV vaccine.
“If your child has missed any of their doses it’s important to catch up as soon as possible, giving them vital protection against this highly contagious disease, but also helping to protect more vulnerable children around them who are too young or unable to have the vaccine due to a health condition.
“With Easter holidays fast approaching, it is a timely reminder to families travelling overseas to ensure all family members, especially children, are vaccinated, as measles is widespread in some countries with close links to the UK and there are ongoing outbreaks in parts of Europe.”
