Symptoms to watch out for amid measles outbreak in Ireland and new HSE advice

The HSE is urging parents to make sure children and young people are up to date with their MMR vaccine due to a rise in cases in parts of the UK and Europe.

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. We advise people to be vigilant and take necessary steps to prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus.

Measles can be unpleasant and is a potentially serious and highly infectious disease that can spread easily through respiratory droplets. 

Dr Lucy Jessop, Director of the National Immunisation Office, HSE said: "The importance of taking precautions to protect both the individual and the community from measles cannot be understated. While measles is preventable through vaccination, the virus spreads very quickly between people who are not vaccinated and can have severe consequences, particularly for babies and vulnerable groups.

"Getting vaccinated against diseases like measles, mumps and rubella is vitally important as these conditions can also lead to other serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy. Remember, if you or your child has missed their childhood vaccines, it’s not too late to catch up."

Here's what you can do to protect your family and community against measles:
1. Ensure that you and your family members are up-to-date with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Contact your GP to check if your child’s vaccinations are up-to-date.
2. Maintain proper hand hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water. Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Stay vigilant for symptoms of measles. These include: high fever, cough, runny nose, characteristic red rash.
If you or a family member develop these symptoms, or have been in contact with someone with measles, stay at home and contact your doctor by phone for advice, and inform healthcare providers of any recent travel history.

Further information about the MMR vaccination is available at immunisation.ie.