Measles vaccine reminder as Europe suffers outbreaks

Saturday 14 July 2018

Parents of young children are being reminded and urged to ensure they are vaccinated against measles to ensure the Bailiwick remains protected against the outbreaks being seen elsewhere.

Some places in Europe, including in England, have seen an increased number of cases of measles in recent months but Guernsey's Director of Public Health said so far the islands have been immune.

Dr Nicola Brink said:

"An increase in measles activity in England has been observed in recent months, mainly associated with several large ongoing outbreaks across Europe, in countries where MMR vaccine uptake has been low historically. Fortunately no cases of measles have been notified in Guernsey over the last year. Uptake of the MMR vaccine in Guernsey is 96.1% which is above the WHO target of 95%. However, the current outbreaks in Europe remind us of the need to be vigilant."

With the vaccine uptake rate being so high in Guernsey, it is thought most children are already protected, but Dr Brink said boosters are needed for pre-school age children and adults can also get them if necessary.

"Children need the first dose of vaccine at about 1 year of age," she said, "and then a pre-school booster at three years and four months of age. Children and young adults who missed out on their MMR vaccine in the past, or are unsure if they had 2 doses, should contact their GP practice to catch-up"

Measles outbreaks have been occurring across England, and these are mainly associated with travel to and from Europe. Between the start of 2018 and 31 May, there were 587 laboratory confirmed measles cases in England – with those areas reporting most cases being London (213), the South East (128), West Midlands (81), South West (62), and Yorkshire and Humberside (53). 

Dr Brink said while Guernsey seems well protected against conditions such as measles, they can easily reoccur. Anyone concerned should therefore seek medical advice.

"We would also urge parents whose children have not received the vaccine to reconsider, in view of the current situation in England and Europe. This is particularly important if they are travelling to countries that are experiencing increased measles activity. Furthermore I would strongly recommend that all people or parents of children with suspected measles contact their GP."