Measles symptoms to watch out for - as outbreak could hit tens of thousands
Parents have been reminded how to identify the early signs of measles, after an expert warned of a possible outbreak in London because of low levels of vaccinations.
Estimates show between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could happen in the capital unless vaccination rates improve, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The risk in London is thought to be because of low vaccination rates over several years.
The UKHSA said there had been 128 cases of measles between January and June 2023, compared with 54 cases across 2022 - with 66% of cases detected in London.
With the summer season comes far more mixing on holidays and events, including music festivals, meaning a major outbreak could be on the horizon.
Parents have been warned to look out for the symptoms of measles (file photo) (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Early symptoms of measles
Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.
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Cold-like symptoms
The first symptoms of measles include:
a high temperature
a runny or blocked nose
sneezing
a cough
red, sore, watery eyes
Spots in the mouth: Small white spots may appear inside the cheeks and on the back of the lips a few days later. These spots usually last a few days.
The measles rash: A rash usually appears a few days after the cold-like symptoms. The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.
Measles is contagious but is easily preventable with vaccination, which comes in two doses.
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Children in the UK can have a first dose of the MMR vaccine on or after their first birthday and the second dose by the time they are three-and-a-half years old.
Vaccination rates in England have dipped and are now well short of the 95% population coverage the World Health Organization says is needed to prevent significant spread.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA consultant epidemiologist, said: "Measles can be a serious infection that can lead to complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
"Due to longstanding suboptimal vaccine uptake there is now a very real risk of seeing big outbreaks in London."
She added: "Nobody wants to see their child or loved ones sick with measles, or put others who are more vulnerable, like babies, at risk.
"I urge those who have missed their MMR vaccines to catch up now."
Jane Clegg, regional chief nurse for the NHS in London, said: "Cases of measles in the capital remain low but it's really important that people check that they, and their children, are up to date with their jabs and protected against MMR - and if you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with your GP practice or local pharmacist for advice.
"Now's the time to act to protect yourself and loved ones from measles."
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