Measles cases spark alert for travellers to Europe

FAMILIES travelling to Europe on summer holidays should ensure they are vaccinated against measles as two cases of the disease have been confirmed this week in Dublin.

The cases were diagnosed in an adult and a child who returned to Dublin after being on mainland Europe.

Measles has led to 31 deaths across Europe this year.

Dr Helena Murray, a specialist in public health medicine, said: “Measles can be a serious illness and is highly infectious. The best protection is to be fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.”

People at increased risk are those who are not fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine or have not had measles in the past. The risk of measles is for up to 21 days after contact with a case of the disease.

“If you think you may have measles, stay at home and phone your GP for advice,” she said.

There is a possible risk of measles to people who may have been in the same healthcare setting as these two cases during the infectious period.

The two patients attended various hospitals, including Tallaght University Hospital A&E on July 1 between 11.30am and 1.30pm.

A second visit was made to the same unit on July 5 between midnight and 8am. They then went to the Mater Hospital on July 7 between 11am and 8pm.

The child attended Temple St Hospital on July 13 between 3pm and 8pm. A second visit was paid on July 15 between 5pm and 1am. A visit was also made to Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin on July 16 between noon and 2.30pm.