THERE is a suspected outbreak of measles in Southend.

Eight people are undertood to have been affected, while 200 people may also have been exposed. 

Those people are being offered the MMR vaccination. 

What should I do?

Public Health England’s national advice to the public is to ensure that you and your family are up to date with all vaccinations. 

Experts say this is the most effective method we all have for keeping ourselves safe and free from these potentially serious infections and diseases.

If you are unsure of your vaccination status, your GP practice should be able to advise you of which vaccinations you may still need.

What are the signs and symptoms of measles?

The initial symptoms of measles develop around ten days after you're infected and can include:

  • cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing and a cough
  • sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light
  • a high temperature (fever), which may reach around 40C (104F)
  • small greyish-white spots on the inside of the cheeks

A few days later, a red-brown blotchy rash will appear.

This usually starts on the head or upper neck before spreading outwards to the rest of the body.

Most adults born before 1970 are likely to be immune because they have probably been exposed to measles already.

What should I do if I think I have these symptoms?

Public Health England advises people with symptoms of measles to:

  • Stay away from school, nursery or work until four days have elapsed after the onset of a rash.
  • Telephone your GP or NHS walk-in centre before attending so that arrangements can be made for you to be treated in a separate area to prevent spread to other vulnerable patients.
  • Avoid contact with people generally, but particularly babies, pregnant women and anyone who is known to have poor immunity to infection 

Useful links:

NHS Measles page:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles/

NHS measles outbreak advice:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/measles-outbreak-advice/

MMR vaccine information:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine-when-needed/