HSE Issues Warning Following Outbreak of Measles in Different Parts of Ireland

The HSE and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HSPC) are currently investigating an ongoing outbreak of measles in different parts of Ireland. According to a statement, outbreak control teams have been convened in HSE East, South and Midwest. Nineteen cases of measles have been identified, of which 13 are confirmed as measles. Most of the cases in Ireland were not aware that they were in contact with measles and the majority have not received the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccination. Dr. Kevin Kelleher is a Consultant in Public Health. He said:

“Measles is highly infectious, and if cases are isolated early, the risk of transmission to vulnerable individuals decreases. The time between exposure to the virus and developing measles rash is normally 14 days (range 7-21 days). People are infectious from 4 days before rash starts until 4 days after.”

The image below shows the areas where individuals with confirmed cases of measles have been detected and when: Those most at risk are those who are not fully vaccinated, babies younger than 12 months (and therefore haven't had the vaccine), and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms of measles include: high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a red rash that starts on the head and spreads down the body. If anyone develops these symptoms then they should stay at home and contact their GP.