REPORTS are rife of a rise in measles in England – but health bosses this week said it’s not the case in Dumfries and Galloway.
An NHS spokesman said: “We are aware of reports of increased numbers of measles cases in England. At present, we have not seen the same increase in Scotland.”
However, he stressed that measles is a highly infectious disease and can cause severe illness, saying: “Vaccination is one of the best protections against measles. Therefore, we would encourage people who are eligible to take up the opportunity of vaccination against measles.”
It was further revealed that young people in secondary schools within the region who may have missed the opportunity to be vaccinated against measles have been provided consent forms so they can now get the jab.
Symptoms of measles can include cold-like symptoms, sore and red eyes that are sensitive to light, watery or swollen eyes, a high temperature, small greyish-white spots in the mouth, aches and pains and loss of appetite. The NHS say the virus can result in people becoming very ill, and in some cases can have serious impacts on long term health.
More information can be found at www.nhsinform.scot/MMRagainstMeasles, and anyone with a specific concern is encouraged to speak to their local medical practice.
