Measles outbreak warning

HOLIDAYmakers heading abroad to soak up the summer sun are being urged to immunise their children against measles, mumps and rubella before setting off.

French authorities have reported an increase in measles this year.

Cases have also been reported in Ireland, Spain, Germany, Bulgaria and many other countries across the world.

Closer to home, Salford has seen a recent outbreak of 25 cases and Stockport has also seen its first recorded case for five years.

In Oldham, there have been no cases of measles this year so far but there were six in 2009.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) North-West is advising families to play it safe and get vaccinated to ensure they do not bring the infection back to Oldham.

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

“Now that we are getting reports of measles on the continent, it is so important for parents to ensure their children are immunised before travelling.

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

Classic symptoms include fever, cough, red and painful eyes, swollen glands, loss of appetite and a rash that tends to follow three days later.

Most people recover without too many problems, but a significant number develop complications which range from ear infections to Meningitis and even death.