New measles cases spark fresh warning

THE number of confirmed cases of measles has risen to at least seven the HSE has confirmed.

The HSE had recently been notified of two cases in north Dublin city, but the health authority says there are now at least seven cases in Dublin and Meath, with most cases in Dublin.

“The Measles Outbreak Control Team continues to investigate and advise on measures to control the further spread of this potentially serious illness,” a HSE spokesperson said.

“Alerts regarding measles have been sent to all emergency departments and General Practitioners (GPs) in the affected areas.

“Work is ongoing in identifying close contacts of cases who are being notified and advised by public health officers.”

 People who have not been fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine or who have not had measles in the past are at high risk of getting measles if exposed.

Those most at risk are people not fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine such as babies younger than 12 months who are too young to be vaccinated, and those with weakened immune systems.   

Unimmunised pregnant women who have been exposed to measles are advised to seek medical advice. 

“Anybody who has symptoms suggestive of measles should stay at home, not go to school or work and phone your GP and explain that you may have measles,” the HSE advises.

Dr John Cuddihy, Acting Assistant National Director for Health Protection said measles can be a serious illness and is highly contagious.

“The best protection is to be fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine,” he said.

Measles symptoms include a high fever, red eyes and a red rash that starts on head and spread down the body. This normally starts a few days after onset of illness. The rash consists of flat red or brown blotches, which can flow into each other. It lasts about 4-7 days.

The time between exposure to measles and developing the rash is usually 14 days (range 7-21 days). People are infectious from four days before rash starts until four days after.