HSE statement: outbreak of measles confirmed in Westmeath area
The Department of Public Health HSE Midlands has been notified of a confirmed outbreak of measles in Westmeath.
Four cases have been notified.
Full investigative and outbreak control measures have been put in place.
We have informed local GPs and hospital Emergency Departments.
Measles is a potentially serious disease which can spread easily.
The symptoms of measles are an initial illness that includes a high temperature (usually over 38°C), conjunctivitis (red eyes), cough and runny nose – followed by (on about day 4) a brown or red blotchy rash – starting on the head and neck and spreading to the rest of the body.
After coming into contact with measles, it usually takes about 14 days before the rash appears.
People are infectious from 4 days before until 4 days after the onset of the rash.
Measles – three things you need to know
1. The best protection against measles is to be fully vaccinated with 2 doses of the MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) vaccine.
2. Pregnant women who have not received 2 doses of MMR vaccine and who have been exposed to measles should seek medical advice by phoning their GP or maternity hospital.
3. If you have any symptoms of measles you should stay at home and not go to crèche, school, college or work. Avoid all visitors. Phone your GP and explain that you may have measles. If you need to see your GP or any other health service call them first before attending – if you don’t you might put other patients at risk.
Complications of Measles
Most people with measles will recover after 7-10 days.
But for some people it can cause serious illness, including ear infections, lung infections, fits and brain damage. Complications are more likely for:
• babies under 12 months
• pregnant women
• those with weakened immune systems
Measles during pregnancy can cause your baby to be born too small or too soon, cause miscarriage or stillbirth.
Talk to your GP or maternity hospital as soon as possible if you’re pregnant and you think you have come into contact with measles.
They can tell you how to reduce your risk.
Prevent measles with the MMR vaccine
• All children should get MMR at 12 months of age and the second dose at 4-5 years of age.
• If your child missed any of their routine MMR vaccines you should contact your GP to get them vaccinated.
• If you are an adult born after 1978 and have not received 2 doses of MMR you should contact your GP to get the MMR vaccine.
More information about measles at:
http://www.hpsc.ie/a-z/vaccinepreventable/measles/factsheet/
and