The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert to parents over an illness that ‘spreads faster than the common cold’ and is ‘a lot more serious’. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, it said: « Remember believing the wildest playground rumours? ».
« Sadly, measles spreads even faster than the gossip. Keep your child protected by staying up to date with their vaccines. »
The update goes on to say: « Playground rumours spread fast, but playground illnesses spread faster. Illnesses like measles can spread a lot faster than the common cold, and are a lot more serious.
« Make sure your child is up to date with their vaccines. »
The initial symptoms of measles include a runny or blocked nose, a high temperature, a cough, sneezing, and red, sore, watery eyes.
A rash typically emerges a few days later, beginning on the face and behind the ears before extending to the rest of the body. Spots of the rash are occasionally raised and joined together to form blotchy patches, and they’re not usually itchy.
The rash appears brown or red on white skin and may be more difficult to detect on brown or black skin. NHS guidance adds: « It’s unlikely to be measles if you’ve had both doses of the MMRV or MMR vaccine or you’ve had measles before. »
Request an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if:
- you or your child have difficulty breathing – you may feel more short of breath than usual
- your baby or young child is not feeding well, or taking less feeds or fluids than usual
- you or your child are peeing less than usual (or your baby has fewer wet nappies)
- you or your child feels very unwell, or you’re worried something is seriously wrong
Measles can spread to others easily. Call your GP surgery before attending.
They may suggest a telephone consultation or arrange for you to visit a section of the surgery where you’re isolated from others.
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