Measles is circulating, it is serious, very infectious and can cause complications especially for those with a weakened immune system, babies under one year and pregnant women.

Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) are highly infectious conditions that can easily spread between unvaccinated people. Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can also lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.

You need two doses of the MMR vaccine to get the best protection.

If your child is due to have had 2 doses of MMR but has not yet received them, no matter what age they are, you should contact the GP Surgery to get them vaccinated as soon as possible. If you can’t remember if your child has had any, 1 or 2 doses of MMR vaccine, check his or her personal health record (the Red Book). If this doesn’t help, contact the GP Surgery.

Think Measles – It’s not just a kids’ problem

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.

Symptoms of measles include:

• high temperature
• rash – sometimes starting around the ears
• red, sore, watery eyes
• cough
• aching and feeling unwell

For more information on measles (including symptoms and images) and the MMR vaccine, please visit the NHS website.

If you think you’ve got measles – Call ahead

Remember, if it could be measles – they need to be in area where they cannot pass the infection to vulnerable patients such as the immunocompromised and pregnant women.

If it could be measles, don’t go to the surgery, walk-in centre or A&E. Stay at home and phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice – Call ahead, that way if you do have measles, you won’t pass it on to others.