There’s been lots of news recently about measles making a comeback in the UK. With families returning from holidays and children heading back to school, it’s important to understand what measles really is and what we can do about it.
We spoke with Dr Oge Ilozue, GP in Barnet and Clinical Advisor for NHS England London to learn more.
I’ve heard people say measles is nothing more than a rash and there is nothing to worry about. What are the facts?
Measles is not just a mild rash; it’s a highly contagious virus that can lead to severe illness in children, with one in five infected children requiring a hospital visit. Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth. It can also spread to other parts of the body like the lungs or brain, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as meningitis and sepsis. Measles is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it is exceptionally contagious, with one infected person capable of passing it on to nine out of ten unprotected people.
How can I tell if my little one has got it?
It’s very unlikely to be measles if you’ve had both doses of the MMR vaccine, or if you’ve had measles before. Typically, measles starts with cold-like symptoms and a high temperature, then a rash will appear. If you suspect that you (or your child) has measles you should get an urgent GP appointment or call NHS 111. This is particularly important if:
- You’ve been in close contact with someone who has measles, and you (or your child) have not received two doses of the MMR vaccine
- You’re pregnant and have been in close contact with someone who has measles, as measles can be serious in pregnancy.
- You have a weakened immune system and think you have measles or have been in close contact with someone with measles.
As measles is highly contagious, always call your GP surgery before visiting and they will guide you on the next steps.
What is the treatment if my child does have it?
Currently, there’s no medical treatment for measles; vaccination is the best defense against serious illness.
Which vaccination protects against measles?
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). It’s a key part of childhood immunisation, and is given to babies and young children as part of the NHS vaccination schedule. The MMR vaccine is given in 2 doses, once when your child is one year old, and once at three years and four months old. Since the 1960s, it has prevented over 20 million measles cases, saving 4,500 lives, proving its safety and efficacy.
Is there a link between the MMR vaccine and autism?
You may have heard concerns about a link between the MMR vaccine and autism, but it’s crucial to note that extensive research has found no evidence of any link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The MMR vaccine is safe, time-tested, and provides robust protection against potentially severe illness. The Oxford University Vaccine Knowledge Project has a list of MMR studies and their findings.
How important is getting the vaccine then?
It’s very important. Vaccination is one of the most effective public health interventions, second only to clean water. It protects you and your child from deadly diseases, undergoing thorough safety testing before introduction and continuous monitoring for side effects. All vaccines and medicines used in the UK are approved by the independent regulator MHRA.
I’m not actually sure if my child has had the MMR vaccine or not, how do I check?
During the pandemic, many children missed vaccine appointments. However, it’s never too late to secure lifelong protection against measles, mumps, and rubella with both doses of the MMR vaccine. Check your child’s vaccination status in their “red book” or contact your GP practice.
Ok great, and if they haven’t had it, what is the next step?
If your child missed vaccinations, reach out to your GP practice for an appointment with a practice nurse. In 2023, the NHS in London is running a polio and MMR vaccination catch-up program through schools. If your child needs these vaccinations, you may be contacted by a health care professional and invited for a convenient appointment at a school or community clinic—act promptly when contacted.
For more information, here are some useful links:
Disclaimer: The NHS have paid a fee towards this post and helped us to advise on the best ways to prepare for your toddler’s jab. This fee will go towards helping more parents find classes and support near them.
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How to Prepare for Your Toddler’s Jab (with as Few Tears as Possible!)
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