Measles
Measles is a highly contagious virus found in many countries. Travel is a major factor in the spread of the virus, and outbreaks are reported worldwide. Measles is one of the leading causes of childhood deaths globally.- Symptoms High fever lasting 4-7 days, conjunctivitis, runny nose, cough and aches & pains. After a few days a blotchy rash appears on the head and neck before spreading over the rest of the body.
- How do you catch Measles? Measles is spread through direct contact with infected persons, through coughing or sneezing.
- Incubation period 7 – 18 Days
- Diagnosis Based on symptoms or testing blood/saliva
Prevention
A combined measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is available to children as part of the UK childhood immunisation schedule. It is recommended that travellers visiting risk areas are up to date with MMR also.
Treatment
As there is no cure for measles, treatment aims to support recovery and antibiotics may be prescribed for some complications.
Vaccination options
A safe, effective vaccine combined with mumps & rubella is available for travellers and for those that need it for occupational purposes. Live vaccine, not suitable for everyone (please discuss with a travel nurse).
Level of protection: 95-99%
Protection duration: lifelong after two doses, no booster required
How is it given: Two injections, four weeks apart.
£40.00 Pricing shown is per dose
Did you know?
- Common complications include severe diarrhoea and ear infections; more serious complications include blindness and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).
- The World Health Organisation’s Measles and Rubella Initiative aims to eliminate measles in 5 WHO regions by 2020 through high vaccination coverage
- A small study in 1988 linked the MMR vaccine to autism, however this was discredited through three major case studies that showed no link between the MMR vaccine and autistic disorders.