Over 60 cases of measles have been reported in schools and nurseries in north-east London, with the outbreak mostly affecting unvaccinated children under 10, the UKHSA has warned
Parents have been urged to remain vigilant for measles symptoms following an outbreak that has affected dozens of pupils in a major UK city.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed that more than 60 cases were recorded in schools and nurseries across north-east London between January 1 and February 9 – with the infections requiring hospital treatment for some youngsters. The outbreak is predominantly impacting children under 10 who haven’t received vaccination, according to the agency’s leading medics, who cautioned that the approaching half-term Easter holidays might result in additional cases being brought back from overseas.
Here are the key symptoms of measles in children:
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles is a severe, extremely contagious viral condition that can transmit rapidly amongst individuals who aren’t fully immunised, reports the Mirror.
Whilst numerous people make a full recovery, the condition can result in severe complications including pneumonia and brain swelling. In certain instances, it may cause permanent disability or prove fatal.
The NHS states that measles symptoms typically manifest in three phases. The initial indication of infection resembles a ‘cold-like illness’, which may feature:.
- a high temperature.
- a runny or blocked nose.
- sneezing.
- a cough.
- red, sore, watery eyes.
Tiny white spots might emerge inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips several days afterwards, and will typically persist for a few days. A telltale measles rash – appearing red or brown on paler skin – typically emerges several days following flu-like symptoms.
The rash begins on the face and behind the ears before spreading across the entire body.
Should you suspect that you or your child might have contracted measles, particularly if unvaccinated, it’s essential to request an urgent GP appointment or ring NHS 111.
How can I safeguard my child against measles?
The sole reliable method of shielding yourself and your family from measles is through completing a full vaccination programme. Research repeatedly demonstrates that approximately 90% of unvaccinated individuals who come into contact with the measles virus will develop the illness.
From January 1, the updated MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox) jab is now available to all young children through the NHS. The conventional MMR vaccination is advised for adults and older children who missed their childhood immunisations.
Should you or your child have missed measles vaccinations, consult your GP.
Easter break could trigger fresh outbreak
Leading medical professionals are cautioning that the half-term break might spark another rise in infections – and are urging parents to verify their children’s vaccination status before travelling overseas.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, stated: “Our latest data shows we are now seeing a big measles outbreak in north-east London, mostly affecting unvaccinated children under 10 in schools and nurseries, with some being hospitalised.
“Measles is a nasty illness for any child, but for some it can lead to long-term complications and tragically death, but is so easily preventable with two doses of the MMRV vaccine.
“If your child has missed any of their doses it’s important to catch up as soon as possible, giving them vital protection against this highly contagious disease, but also helping to protect more vulnerable children around them who are too young or unable to have the vaccine due to a health condition.
“With Easter holidays fast approaching, it is a timely reminder to families travelling overseas to ensure all family members, especially children, are vaccinated, as measles is widespread in some countries with close links to the UK and there are ongoing outbreaks in parts of Europe.”