Measles cases are on the rise in south east Wales, with nine confirmed cases in the region. Public Health Wales (PHW) is urging parents and carers to ensure their children are fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine to prevent infection.
Early symptoms of measles include a high temperature, cough, runny nose, and painful, red eyes. Small white spots inside the mouth can also indicate the presence of the disease. The affected cases are primarily in the Gwent area, encompassing Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire, Caerphilly, and Blaenau Gwent. PHW is working closely with Aneurin Bevan University Health Board to identify contacts in each case and provide necessary treatment and guidance.
Beverley Griggs from PHW emphasizes that measles is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, especially in vulnerable populations. Children who have not received a full course of the MMR vaccine may have to be isolated from school for up to 21 days if they have been in contact with a confirmed case. It is essential for adults who have not been vaccinated to consult with their GP, especially if they are in close contact with children.
Prof Tracy Daszkiewicz from Aneurin Bevan University Health Board stresses the importance of timely vaccination. The first dose of MMR is recommended around 12 months of age and a booster dose at approximately three years and four months. However, it is never too late to receive the vaccine to protect against measles and help prevent further outbreaks in the community.
In summary, PHW has reported an increase in measles cases in south east Wales with nine confirmed cases in Torfaen, Newport, Monmouthshire, Caerphilly, and Blaenau Gwent areas. PHW emphasizes that measles is highly contagious and can cause severe complications especially among vulnerable populations like children who haven’t received a full course of MMR vaccine. To prevent infection it’s important for parents and carers ensure their children get fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine before going back to school after illness or exposure to someone who has tested positive for measles virus.
It’s crucial for adults who haven’t been vaccinated yet or those who are unsure about their immunity status should consult their GP immediately if they are close contact with someone who has tested positive for measles virus or if they suspect they may have been exposed themselves.
PHW strongly advises parents and caregivers take action by ensuring their children receive all recommended doses of MMR vaccine as soon as possible while promoting good hygiene practices like regular hand washing or covering mouths when coughing or sneezing as this will reduce transmission risk within community settings.
