If you’re travelling abroad this summer you should ensure you are fully immunised against MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) in good time before your holidays begin.
The Department of Health has released figures showing a recent spike in measles cases across the UK, and an outbreak of the illness across Eastern Europe and other areas of the continent.
Dr Jenifer Smith, Director of Public Health for the Island, said: ‘‘If you’ve never had a vaccination against MMR and are travelling abroad this summer, you should contact your GP as early as possible.
“For best immunity, two doses of the vaccine are required with an interval of at least four weeks between. Other vaccinations may also be required depending on where you are travelling.
“If you are going on holiday very shortly and are not immunised, a single dose of MMR vaccine before you leave is better than none at all.”
To make sure you are fully immunised this summer, visit your local GP for advice or to book an appointment.
The initial symptoms of measles appear roughly 10 days after picking up the infection, which include cold-like symptoms with a temperature, tiny white spots in the mouth and throat, and a red rash. These symptoms will last around 14 days, but it is vital to visit your doctor as soon as symptoms appear.
For more information on measles, visit www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Measles/Pages/Introduction.aspx website.
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