For parents with young infants who are planning to travel abroad this summer, an extra MMR vaccine is advised due to the increasing instances of measles throughout Europe, as stated by the Irish College of GPs (ICGP). The ICGP encourages parents and caretakers of babies aged six to eleven months to get their infant vaccinated by a GP free of charge, at least two weeks before setting off for a European vacation.
Reacting to the rapid spread of measles in Europe, ICGP’s clinical lead for infection control, Dr Scott Walkin, pointed out that the MMR vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles outbreaks. The disease is highly contagious and can easily spread amongst large congregations of people, including transport hubs like bus stations, airports and ferries.
Dr Walkin indicated that infants or those not fully immunised with the MMR vaccine are extremely susceptible to catching measles. He also warned about the high risk that international travel poses for unvaccinated children. Measles can lead to a serious illness, with around 20% of cases necessitating hospitalisation. Vaccinations, besides being safe and effective, are crucial for protecting the larger community.
Additionally, it is recommended that family members of young infants unsure of their measles immunity get two doses of the MMR vaccine. An extra dose of MMR vaccine is safe even if you are unsure about it. It is important to note, however, that individuals born in Ireland before 1978 are presumed to be immune and do not require the vaccination.
In May, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF issued a warning about the escalating measles cases throughout Europe. The number of cases this year is predicted to soon surpass the total count from 2023. During the first quarter of 2024, a reported 56,634 measles cases and four fatalities were officially recorded across 45 of 53 countries in the WHO’s European region. This compares to 61,070 cases and 13 deaths reported by 41 nations in the whole of 2023.
Concerned individuals or those experiencing symptoms of measles are urged to visit www.hse.ie, contact HSELive at 1800 700 700, or consult a participating GP.