Measles
We are seeing an increase in cases of measles across our communities.
If you are concerned your child may have measles please do not come to the Emergency Department unless directed to. Please contact your GP (contact your GP practice but do not visit unless instructed) or ring 111 first.
If you need to attend our Emergency Department
If you are directed to attend our Emergency Department wherever possible please keep numbers to an absolute minimum – this means only one parent/carer and no brothers or sisters.
We also strongly encourage everyone to wear a mask at all times due to the highly infectious nature of measles, but also the recent increase in cases of flu and COVID.
If you have been asked to come to ED as a contact of someone with measles, please bring any letters or information you have received.
Please come with your child’s vaccination record wherever possible. This is usually recorded in your Redbook (the Personal Child Health Record given shortly before or after your child’s birth). Your GP surgery should be able to check whether you've had both doses of the MMR vaccine. You may also be able to access your vaccination record online through GP online services.
Read about how to access your health records.
Staying safe in the Emergency Department
Measles is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, there are things you can do to reduce the risk of spreading or catching it, please:
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water or use hand gel
- Use tissues when you cough or sneeze
- Throw used tissues in the bin
- Do not share cutlery, cups, towels, clothes, or bedding
Caring for those with measles
Measles usually starts to get better in about a week.
Whilst recovering, please:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to avoid dehydration.
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen, as directed, to relieve a high temperature,
- Use cotton wool soaked in warm water to gently remove any crusts from your eyes or your child's eyes.
Stay off nursery, school, or work for at least 4 days from when the rash first appears.
Avoid close contact with babies, people who are pregnant and people with weakened immune systems.
Protecting against measles
Two doses of the MMR vaccine can help stop you or your child from becoming seriously unwell with measles.
Contact your GP practice if you're unsure if you or your child have had the vaccine.
Did you know a version of the MMR vaccine, Priorix, contains no pork ingredients? Speak to your GP practice and request Priorix for protection against measles.
Learn more about Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
Helpful links