Travellers alerted to measles risk

Families planning overseas trips are being warned to ensure that their children are immunised against measles, mumps and rubella before setting off on holiday.

The advice is issued by the Health Protection Agency (HPA) North West after French authorities reported an increase in measles cases in France this year. Measles cases have also been reported in Ireland, Spain, Germany, Bulgaria and many other countries throughout the world.

Dr. Catherine Quigley, HPA North West’s Regional Epidemiologist, said: “It’s never too late to get your child vaccinated with MMR vaccine, which provides the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

“Now that we are getting reports of measles cases on the continent, it is more than ever important for parents to ensure that their children are immunised before travelling. Parents should consult the family doctor for advice.

“Measles is a serious infection that can lead to pneumonia and encephalitis. It should not be taken lightly.”