Measles in Salford

A message from Public Health Salford regarding measles:

Across all of England, including areas of Greater Manchester, so far this year there have been confirmed cases of measles.  To date, cases of measles this year are over double that of the whole last year, 65% of these cases are in children under 10 years old and a further 20% are in teenagers and young people.  

Whilst measles can be mild for some children, one in five will require a regular hospital visit, and the infection can lead to complications in one in 15, such as meningitis and sepsis.  People whose immunity is compromised, pregnant women and unvaccinated children are at increased risk of severe disease.

Two doses of the MMR vaccine is enough to give lifelong protection from becoming seriously unwell with mumps, measles and rubella.  The MMR vaccine is given at one year old and again at around three years and four months in readiness for starting school.  It is often given at the same time as the pre-school booster.  Parents can check their child's immunisations are up to date by checking their child's immunisation record (Red Book) or by contacting their GP surgery.  Anyone who has missed any of their childhood vaccinations, including MMR, can catch up at any time.  Please ring your GP to make an appointment.

Important points:

• Make sure your children get two MMR vaccines on time; the first at 1 year of age and the second at 3 years, 4 months 
   
• If you or your children missed these vaccines, it’s not too late. Ask for the free vaccine from your family doctor (GP) if you or your children aren’t up-to-date 
   
• If you have symptoms of measles, stay at home and phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice. STAY AWAY from GP surgeries and A&E departments – you could spread the illness to others 
   
• Symptoms include: high fever/temperature; sore red, watery eyes; coughing; a runny nose; aching and feeling generally unwell; a blotchy red brown rash, which usually appears after the first symptoms 

Go to www.nhs.uk for more measles information