The British Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has disseminated an immediate health notice to the public emphasising potential exposure to a measles case at an indoor gaming facility for kids near Castleknock in north Dublin. HSE confirmed that an individual who attended the Ship Shape Kids Play at Junction 6 Castleknock on the afternoon of April 4th had a confirmed case of measles. As a safety measure, HSE urges anyone present at the venue on the specified afternoon to pay attention to potential signs and symptoms of measles and scrutinize them for three weeks following the possible exposure day.
Several measles cases reported lately in Dublin and the northeast, leading to an enhanced threat of the disease spreading in the local community. The disease, highly contagious, could result in serious complications, especially in infants under one, expectant mothers and immunosuppressed individuals, HSE warned. It was advised that anyone from these groups should consult their physician.
Due to the rise in cases in this short span, HSE warns there’s a risk of the disease spreading continuously in the community. Following previous warnings earlier this month relating to potential exposure for those travelling on certain Dublin Bus and Go-Ahead services in north Dublin, similar warnings were made for risk of measles exposure. Those who travelled in route 238 (Dublin 15) of Go Ahead bus service on March 26th from 2 to 4 pm or on Dublin Bus route 38A from Blanchardstown to O’Connell St were asked to be alert for potential exposure.
Signs of measles include runny nose, sneezing and cough (like a common cold), red and sore eyes, high temperature (of or above 38 degrees), and a rash that initially appears on the head and neck before spreading to the rest of the body. In case any of these symptoms are identified, HSE urges to seek healthcare advice and inform prior to any healthcare centre visit for necessary arrangements. HSE has advised MMR vaccination as the most effective way to safeguard oneself against measles. It is offered to toddlers over five years old free of charge at GPs or HSE vaccination clinics.
The MMR vaccine Catch-up Programme – HSE.ie specifies the time and venue for adults in need of vaccination. It is advised for children to get their first MMR vaccine dose when they are one year old and a subsequent dose when they reach the age of four or five, typically in their junior infancy. Those not immunised against measles, with two MMR doses, are asked to consult their GP at the earliest convenience during standard business hours to explore the necessity of vaccination, as recommended by the HSE. There’s additional measles-related information accessible online. Additionally, the HSE has established a toll-free hotline, 1800 700700, for measles updates.