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Jersey measles alert: Second confirmed case in less than a month

Jersey measles alert: Second confirmed case in less than a month

Thursday 22 August 2024

Jersey measles alert: Second confirmed case in less than a month

Thursday 22 August 2024


Islanders are being urged to check their vaccination status following a second confirmed measles case in Jersey in less than a month.

At the start of August, the island recorded its first case of the highly contagious disease in eight years.

A second case has today been confirmed – but this is not connected to this previous case.

Director of Public Health, Professor Peter Bradley, said that "all possible precautions to help stop onward transmission are taking place".

He encouraged islanders to check their measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination status and be aware of the symptoms of measles.

Prof Bradley explained: “The best way to protect yourself and your children from measles is through the MMR vaccination which is highly effective and safe.

I encourage all islanders to make sure that they are fully vaccinated.

He added: “Measles is circulating in parts of the UK and Europe, so it is especially important that islanders check they are up to date with their vaccine schedule before travelling abroad.

“Jersey’s vaccination rates are high, but we know that there are some people who are eligible for the vaccine and have not had both doses.

This puts them at risk, especially if travelling off island to places where measles is circulating.

Measles is a highly contagious disease and can be very serious in those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or aged under one year old.

The disease has been circulating in some parts of the UK and other European countries recently.

What are the symptoms?

  • cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough

  • sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light

  • a high temperature (fever)

  • a red-brown blotchy rash will appear after a few days. This usually starts on the head or upper neck.

How do I know if I've been vaccinated?

Anyone not sure if they or their child have received their vaccine can check by contacting their GP surgery or the Childhood Immunisation Team on 01534 443741.

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