Spate of measles outbreaks at music festivals sparks MMR plea

Outbreaks of measles cases at summer festivals are prompting Public Health England (PHE) to remind people to ensure they have been vaccinated.

Almost 40 cases linked to music festivals and other large public gatherings have been reported since June in England. These continue the trend in measles incidence over the year – 234 cases were confirmed between January and June, compared with 54 for the same period last year, PHE says.

Young people who are unsure whether they have been fully vaccinated should check with their GP and ensure they receive the two required doses of MMR vaccine.

Practice nurses’ role

PHE nurse consultant for immunisations David Green said practice nurses are key to ensuring vulnerable groups were protected.

He says: ‘Measles is highly infectious and spreads easily to those not vaccinated, so it is important that children, adolescents and young adults are up to date with their MMR jabs – it’s never too late to have the vaccine.

Rubella warning

‘It is also important that women are vaccinated with MMR before becoming pregnant, because rubella can cause serious complications during pregnancy. 

‘Practice nurses, who are central to the delivery of many NHS immunisation programmes, can give missing doses opportunistically to those lacking the necessary two doses.’