First evidence of measles spreading in the community as cases rise in Gwent outbreak
Public health officials believe measles is spreading in the community in Gwent, with nine cases of measles now confirmed. Parents and carers are now being urged to ensure that their children are fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine to avoid catching measles.
Public Health Wales has been working with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board to identify contacts of all cases and has provided them with advice on what action to take and information about the signs and symptoms of measles. All patients are receiving appropriate care.
If you live in Cardiff and the Vale and are unsure if your child has had the MMR vaccine, you are encouraged to check their personal child health record (red book) in the first instance. If you remain unsure, other options include:
Contacting the Local Child Health Team on 02921 836926 or 02921 836929
Contacting your GP Practice, avoiding peak times such as early mornings where possible
Other options for MMR vaccination include:
Your GP Practice
Your local Mass Vaccination Centre. Call 02921 841234. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.
If you would like to discuss anything regarding the vaccine, please contact the School Nursing Immunisation Team on 02921847661/664 or email Immunisation.CAVUHBschoolnursing@wales.nhs.uk
Beverley Griggs, Consultant in Health Protection for Public Health Wales and Chair of the multi-agency Outbreak Control Team, is highlighting the role parents can play in preventing the spread of measles through vaccination.
“Measles is a highly infectious disease and can have serious complications, particularly for babies, those with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women," she said.
“Measles can be prevented by the highly effective and safe MMR vaccine. Parents and carers should note that children who have not received a full course of MMR may have to be withdrawn from school for up to 21 days, if they are identified as a contact of a measles case. We understand that this may have an impact on children who are due to sit exams soon and we would ask for parents continued support to stop further cases of measles in the community.
“In addition, adults who have never had measles or the MMR vaccine and who are in close contact with children are also urged to ensure they speak to their GP about vaccination.”
Prof Tracy Daszkiewicz, Executive Director for Public Health at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board said: “I would ask all parents to ensure that their children have received their MMR vaccinations at the appropriate age – that is, the first dose at around 12 months with the second booster dose at around three years and four months old. However, if your child has not yet had the MMR vaccine, they can still come forward for their vaccine. It is never too late to be vaccinated.
“It is very easy for parents to check their child’s vaccination status, they can look at their red book, or visit their local Health Board website, which will have further details on how to find out their child’s vaccination status and to book a vaccination if needed.
“I also encourage people to be aware of the early symptoms which include; a high temperature, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (painful, red eyes) and sometimes small white spots on the inside of the mouth. Should you suspect measles, stay at home and contact your GP for an urgent appointment or call 111.”
More information about the MMR vaccine is available at https://phw.nhs.wales/eligibility-for-the-mmr-vaccine/