HSE issues public warning after measles outbreak spreads
THE HSE has issued a warning to the public following the spread of a measles outbreak in Dublin and Meath.
There are now 17 confirmed cases of measles, 12 of which have been confirmed in Dublin – with most cases in North Dublin.
According to the HSE, both children and adults have been affected.
Dr Deirdre Mulholland, Director of Public Health for the HSE, said: “Measles can be a serious illness and is highly contagious.
“The best protection is to be fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine.”
The HSE is also advising that everyone should be aware of the possible risk of the spread of measles whenever groups of people gather and particularly when attending healthcare services such as GPs or emergency departments.
Anybody who thinks they may have measles have been advised to stay at home and phone their GP and to stop visitors from coming to their home.
Any pregnant women who have been exposed to measles should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Measles is highly contagious and is spread easily, with the time between exposure to measles and developing a rash usually around 14 days.
According to the HSE, symptoms include; high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, red rash that starts on head and spreads down the body, vomiting, diarrhoea and tummy pain.
Alerts have also been issued to all emergency departments and GPs in Dublin and Meath.
For further information visit www.hse.ie or call your GP.
