Public Health reiterates measles warning as cases rise in UK

Vaccination levels in England have hit their lowest level since 2011

Public Health is reiterating the signs and symptoms of measles as the highly infectious disease continues to spread across areas of England.

It usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a non-itchy red-brown rash about three to five days later.

The warning comes as vaccination levels in England hit their lowest level since 2011.

New data released from NHS England, covering 2023/24, shows overall coverage now stands at 89.4 per cent, with the NHS warning diseases like measles can spread quickly.

No vaccine met the target needed to ensure diseases cannot spread amongst young people.

Of England's five-year-olds, 91.9 per cent had received one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps & rubella) vaccine - the lowest level since 2010/11 - while just 83.9 per cent had received both doses - the lowest since 2009/10.

Here on the Isle of Man Public Health is circulating advice on social media and to parents.

It states:

• Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms (a high temperature, a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a cough, red sore or watery eyes), followed by a non-itchy, red-brown rash about 3 – 5 days later. Some people may also get small white spots in their mouth.
• If you suspect you or a family member has measles, you need to be assessed by a doctor. Phone your GP or MEDS out of hours.
• You must phone ahead if you suspect measles, so that you can be seen safely away from other people to reduce the risk of spreading this infectious disease to others.

The health body launched a catch-up campaign earlier this year, to make sure people are up to date with their MMR vaccinations.

The below letter was sent home to caregivers with children at QEII High School:

Manx Radio has contacted Public Health Isle of Man for comment.