The HSE are urging people to ensure their MMR vaccinations are updated
The HSE are advising anyone travelling abroad for the summer to make sure they’re up to date on their MMR vaccinations.
According to the organisation, measles outbreaks and cases have been reported in many European and popular summer destinations.
The HSE released a statement with concern about a measles outbreak occurring in Ireland, as unvaccinated families may travel to these reported countries.
Measles is a highly infectious disease and spreads quickly among unvaccinated people, the HSE reports.
At the moment, cases are the highest in the following European countries:
- France
- Spain
- Romania
- Netherlands
- Belgium
The HSE also reports that many measles cases are being reported in the USA, Canada, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
If you are travelling to these countries, the HSE strongly advises that you are up to date on your MMR vaccines.
They advise getting the vaccine two weeks before you travel.
The MMR vaccine is available for free for anyone born after January 1st, 1978, for anyone not age-appropriately vaccinated.
Infants aged between six months and 12 months can receive the MMR vaccine from their GP for free.
What are the symptoms of measles?
If you’re not well-versed in what to look out for in children and adults, some early symptoms can indicate infection.
Early symptoms usually last 4–7 days.
They include:
- running nose
- cough
- red and watery eyes
- small white spots inside the cheeks
The rash begins about 7–18 days after exposure, usually on the face and upper neck. It spreads over about 3 days, eventually to the hands and feet. It usually lasts 5–6 days before fading.
Her report the best way to prevent measles is to get the MMR vaccine. People who have contracted measles before are unlikely to get the measles again.
