The number of measles cases has increased in Harrow since the beginning of the year. We all need to take care with children or adults that are unvaccinated and try to minimise the ongoing infection.
Measles is not a harmless childhood illness. Children will become very distressed, and in some rare cases they may be admitted to hospital to recover.
Infants can only have the vaccine after their first birthday. Before then they are vulnerable to infection.
It is not just an issue for children. Adults that have a weakened immune system, such as those on cancer treatment, can have serious complications. Pregnant women are also vulnerable.
Measles is highly infectious. It can be infectious for up to 4 days before any symptoms appear. Initially people might develop cold-like symptoms, have a high temperature or have red sore eyes. A few days later, they will develop a brown or red rash on their face. The rash will then spread. It may be harder to see the rash on brown or black skin.
If you suspect your child may have measles
- If your child is not vaccinated and has symptoms, ring 111 or ask for an urgent GP appointment
- Please do not go to a healthcare setting, such as a GP surgery, or urgent care centre, without an appointment
- You do not need to go to A&E
- Your child should stay off nursery or school for at least four days from the appearance of the rash
- They should avoid close contact with a vulnerable child or adult. They can return to education once they feel well and after the four-day period
If a family member has measles and your child is not vaccinated, your child should stay off school. If you are unsure about their vaccine status, check their Red Book or contact your GP.
Vaccinations
The best way to protect your child against measles is for them to have both doses of the MMR vaccine. It’s free, well established and effective.
Children are called to receive the vaccine, but anyone can have it from their GP if required.
There are two versions of the vaccine. One of them does not contain any porcine gelatine, for details see nhs.uk.
School outbreak
If another child in your school has measles, continue to send your child in unless:
- they develop symptoms
- a healthcare professional advises they stay off school
Your child should return to school after four days if they feel well.