HSE issues advice following measles outbreak in March

HSE says there is a risk of on-going community spread.

The Department of Public Health HSE Dublin and North East is advising the public about the risk of measles infection to non-immune individuals across the region. Since the beginning of March a small number of confirmed measles cases have been notified to the health body. As a result, it says “there is a risk of on-going community spread”.

Following the most recent notification of a confirmed measles case at the end of March, the HSE says that some people may have been exposed to the disease while travelling on Go Ahead bus route 238 (Dublin 15) on Tuesday, March 26 from 14:00-16:00 hours or while travelling on Dublin Bus route 38A from Blanchardstown to O’Connell Street on Tuesday, March 26 from 16:30-19:00 hours .

A spokesperson said those impacted must become aware of the signs and symptoms of measles for 21 days, from the time of possible exposure. “Measles is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious complications, particularly in children under one year of age, pregnant women, and the immunosuppressed,” continued the spokesperson.

“If you are in one of these groups, please seek advice from your GP. If you travelled on these bus routes during the dates and times above, it is especially important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of measles, which include cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing and a cough; sore red eyes; a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above; and a rash, which usually appears on head and neck first and spreads to rest of body."

Meanwhile, the best way to become protected from measles is through MMR vaccination. The HSE says this can be arranged free of charge with GPs or in the HSE vaccination clinics for children over 5 years and for adults where vaccination is indicated. Further information is available at: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/measles/