Following the tragic death of a child with measles in Liverpool, health services in Calderdale are urging local people to check that they and their children are vaccinated against the disease.
Measles is an infection that spreads very easily through breath, coughs and sneezes. It can cause serious problems in some people, including pneumonia and meningitis, and in rare cases, death.
Calderdale Council and NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board (ICB) are reminding people of the measles symptoms to be aware of, including:
- Cold-like symptoms at first, such as a high temperature, a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a cough and red, sore, watery eyes.
- Small white spots that appear a few days later inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips.
- A rash that usually appears a few days after the cold-like symptoms. The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.
Measles can affect both children and adults. People at higher risk, such as babies, young children, pregnant women and people with weaker immunity may face more complications from measles.
If you think you or your child has measles, phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice. Do not go into the GP surgery or A&E as measles is highly infectious. Do not send children to school or childcare if you think they have measles.
Having the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) jab is the best way to prevent getting and spreading measles. Two doses of the MMR vaccine give you lifelong protection.
Ask at your GP surgery if you’re not sure if you or your child have had the vaccine. They can give it for free on the NHS.
Cllr Tim Swift, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health, said:
“Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and friends of the child who tragically died in Liverpool after contracting measles.
“With the school summer holidays approaching and more people mixing, we’re urging people in Calderdale to get vaccinated against this extremely contagious infection. Having two doses of the MMR jab gives us the best chance of protecting ourselves and our loved ones and preventing outbreaks in our communities. It’s never too late to get vaccinated.”
Debs Harkins, Calderdale Council’s Director of Public Health, said:
“The Council and our local health and care partners work together to prepare for any possible measles cases and outbreaks in Calderdale. We recently added to these preparations by coming together as a partnership to test our plans for dealing with a measles outbreak. This ensures that local organisations can respond quickly and effectively if we need to in Calderdale.
“Residents can play their part by making sure they are vaccinated and by being vigilant to the signs and symptoms of measles.”
Dr James Thomas, Medical Director at NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, added:
“There is a real risk of a measles outbreak in West Yorkshire – vaccination rates have fallen over recent years.
“Measles is more than just a rash; it is a serious, potentially life-changing condition that spreads very easily. It can lead to severe illness and even death in children. For pregnant women, it can cause premature birth, low birth weight and still births.
“But measles, as well as mumps and rubella, is preventable, so if you or your child have not had your MMR jab, it is really important that you come forward.”
On the NHS website there is information on the symptoms of measles, how to look after yourself if you have measles, how to avoid catching or spreading the illness, getting vaccinated, and the possible complications of measles: www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles(external link)