Update 16.2.26: Information regarding Measles cases. 

Key Information for Patients/Parents/Carers (as of 16.2.26)

Measles:

* Measles cases are increasing locally and spreading quickly among unvaccinated children.

* Measles is a serious illness which can lead to hospitalisation and death.

* Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, sore red eyes, followed by a rash starting on the face. Read: www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles

* If you suspect measles, call your GP or NHS 111 before attending and keep your child off school for 4 days after the rash appears. They should also avoid close contact with infants under 12 months, people who are pregnant and people with weakened immune systems.

Vaccination (as of 16.2.26 - please note this information may be subject to change based on updates from our local vaccination team)

* The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps & rubella, serious illnesses that can cause pneumonia, deafness & brain swelling.

* The vaccine is usually given to children in two doses. The first dose is given to children aged 12 months old, and the second dose is given after they are 3 years and 4 months old (if born on or before 31.12.24), or from 18 months olds (if born on or after 7.7.24).

* If your child (or you as an adult) are not fully vaccinated against measles with 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, then you are at risk of developing measles.

* Check your child’s Red Book or contact your GP to confirm they’ve had 2 doses of MMR as per the national recommended vaccination schedule. If missing, book a catch-up MMR appointment, or additional community catch-up clinics are available via Vaccination UK: https://www.schoolvaccination.uk/catch-up-clinics or call: 0208 017 7925 or email: haringey@v-uk.co.uk

* Currently, our local vaccination team has advised that bringing forward the first MMR dose before the usual recommended 12 months is not recommended. However, if a baby under 12 months is exposed to measles, they will be identified and contacted by the Health Protection Team (HPT) with specific advice.