British tourists are being urged to do one thing in order to avoid “ruining” their holiday this autumn. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued the guidance to travellers on social media.
The agency is urging people to make sure they’re protected against measles before jetting off abroad. It comes amid a potential rise in infections this year. The highly-contagious illness causes fever, cough, red eyes and a rash, but can be prevented effectively by the MMR vaccine.
The UKHSA said in a post on X: “Planning an autumn or winter getaway? Don’t let measles ruin your holiday.
“Two doses of the #MMR vaccine give you full protection, and you can catch up at your GP practice if you’ve missed any.”
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), measles cases are at a 25 year high in Europe. Over 127,000 cases were reported across the continent last year – the highests number since 1997.
Despite reaching a low of 4,440 in 2016, the number of measles cases has risen since. More than half of measles cases reported required hospital admission, and a total of 38 deaths have been recorded.
Hans Kluge, WHO regional director for Europe, said: “Measles is back, and it’s a wake-up call. Without high vaccination rates, there is no health security. Every country must step up efforts to reach under-vaccinated communities.”
Measles usually begins with cold-like symptoms before a red-brown rash develops and spreads. Some people also notice white spots inside their mouth.
The unpleasant virus can lead to life-threatening complications in some cases. It can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, seizures, and even blindness.
The UKHSA is urging people to make sure they have received two doses of the MMR vaccine. It provides full protection and immunity from the virus.
The NHS said: “The MMR vaccine can prevent measles. It also protects you from mumps and rubella. The MMR vaccine is offered to all children in the UK. 2 doses can give lifelong protection against measles, mumps, and rubella.
“Ask at your GP surgery if you’re not sure you or your child have had the vaccine. They can give it for free on the NHS.”