The UK Health Security Agency wants people to familiarise themselves with the symptoms of the ‘serious’ disease
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) wants people to recognise the symptoms of a “highly contagious” disease. Knowing the warning signs is key, as the disease “can cause serious complications.”
The government agency issued a social media alert about measles, urging people to get fully vaccinated. A post on X read: “#Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications. It’s easily preventable with the #MMR vaccine, so make sure that you and your loved ones are up to date and catch up on any missed doses.” It included a video urging people to “know the symptoms.”
UKHSA said the first symptoms of measles include:
- high temperature
- runny or blocked nose
- sneezing
- a cough
- red, sore, watery eyes
These symptoms are followed by a rash that starts on the face then spreads to the rest of the body. UKHSA said: “The rash looks brown or red on white skin. It may be harder to see on brown and black skin. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.”
The NHS website has photos that show what the rash could look like on your skin. The rash usually appears a few days after you get the cold-like symptoms.
The guidance explained that you should phone ahead before visiting your GP surgery if you suspect measles, as your GP may suggest talking over the phone.
Information about the MMR vaccine can be found on the NHS website. The NHS explains: “The MMR vaccine gives long-term protection against measles, mumps and rubella.” It adds: “These 3 infections spread easily between people and can lead to serious problems including meningitis, blindness and hearing loss.
“If you’re pregnant, getting measles can cause premature birth, miscarriage or still birth. And getting rubella can cause serious problems for your baby such as damage to their sight and hearing.
“2 doses of the MMR vaccine gives you long-term protection. Getting vaccinated also helps protect people who cannot be vaccinated, such as unborn babies, newborn babies and anyone with a weakened immune system.”
Babies and young children are usually given the MMR vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination schedule, but older children and adults can have it if they were not vaccinated, as it can be given at any age.
While most people can have the MMR vaccine, the NHS advises it is not suitable if you’re pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have had a serious allergic reaction to ingredients in the vaccine, reports Bristol Live.
If you think you might need the MMR vaccine or you’re not sure if your child has had both doses, the NHS says to contact your GP surgery. The vaccine is given as an injection in the upper arm or thigh, and it is usually delivered at least one month apart for adults. Young children have the first dose they’re 1 year old and the second dose when they’re between 3 years 4 months and 5 years old. Both doses are necessary for full protection.