Posted by Keri Hartwright Last updated 5th March 2024 reading time
Is there really a measles outbreak?
The measles virus has been around for many years and at one point was on the verge of being eradicated with the introduction of a vaccine. There was for many years a good uptake of this vaccine.
Measles is caused by a virus that with a good vaccine uptake that could disappear, but when the numbers of those vaccinated starts to drop below 90% "herd immunity" starts to fall. This means that the numbers of people infected goes up.
During the pandemic there was a low uptake on a number of vaccines for a number of reasons and one of those was the MMR. There was a significant cohort of children who were eligible for the vaccine who did not receive it
Since October 2023 there have been 160 confirmed cases of measles in the UK, and there has been communications going out from the NHS to all children who are eligible for the vaccine.
What happens if a child gets the virus?
What causes measles?
Measlesis caused by a virus that can spread very quickly between people. It is easily spread through droplet infection (coughing and sneezing) and for many the virus will cause a bit of discomfort but nothing more.
It can however affect an unvaccinated person for a few hours after someone carrying the virus has been in the room. It can live on surface as well. There is particular risk to those with poor immunity or who are pregnant.
Following good hand hygiene and using tissues etc will reduce the risk of the virus spreading. It is easily prevented through vaccination.
How will it affect my child?
Someone who is infected with the virus can have a range of symptoms which in many will be mild. These include:
 a rash,
a fever,
watery or swollen eyes,
a high temperature
irritability
lethargy or a lack of energy
There can however more serious symptoms, particularly if the person who catches it has a weak immune system or is pregnant. It can cause blindness, brain damage and death.
What do I do if someone catches it?
Treat as you would for any other virus. Give paracetamol (calpol) for comfort. Keep them well hydrated and seek advice if they are struggling with their breathing or having fits related to their temperature.
Won't the vaccine cause autism?
Deciding whether to vaccinate your child is a very personal decision and one that is worth doing your research on. As to whether the vaccine will cause autism, there is no evidence to substantiate this claim
Posted by Keri Hartwright Last updated 5th March 2024 reading time
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