FAO Families - Measles Update

Measles is circulating across England. Measles can lead to infections, fits, damage to the brain or in severe cases, death. Measles spreads very quickly in educational settings and one person with measles can infect up to 15 other children if they have not been vaccinated. 

What to look out for
Symptoms of measles include a high temperature, runny or blocked nose sneezing, a cough, red sore watery eyes, white spots inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips and a rash (that starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.)
What to do if you think your child has measles.

• Seek advice immediately from your doctor or 111. Remember to call ahead and to let your doctor know that you suspect measles before visiting the practice.
• Keep your child away from others and keep them off school. 
• If your child is severely unwell ring 999 for urgent medical help. 

How to protect your child from measles
The only protection from measles is the Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination. This is given in 2 doses at 12 months and 3 years 4 months. If you are unsure whether your child is up to date with their MMR vaccination you can check their red book or ring your doctor’s surgery who will be able to check. It is never too late to catch up on MMR vaccinations.

For more information on measles visit Measles - NHS