Advice issued as second case of measles confirmed

Health chiefs are urging people in Jersey to be aware of the symptoms of measles after a second case of the disease in the island was confirmed.

Residents have also been asked to check their vaccination history and those who have not had two doses of MMR or measles have been advised to check for symptoms.

Typical symptoms of the highly-contagious disease are like those of a cold, together with sore eyes and, after a few days, a red-brown rash that usually starts on the head or upper neck, medical staff said.

Jersey's first case of measles in eight years was identified three weeks ago.

Measles can be very serious in those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or aged under a year old, the public health team said.

Prof Peter Bradley, director of Public Health, said: "We have identified another case of measles in Jersey. All possible precautions to help stop onward transmission are taking place.

"Measles can be prevented through two doses of the MMR vaccination. The best way to protect yourself and your children from measles is through the MMR vaccination which is highly effective and safe."

He said measles was circulating in parts of the UK and Europe.

Prof Bradley said: "Jersey's vaccination rates are high, but we know that there are some people who are eligible for the vaccine and have not had both doses.

"This puts them at risk, especially if travelling off island to places where measles is circulating."

The Public Health team advised anyone experiencing symptoms of the disease or who were unsure of their children's vaccination history to phone their doctor.

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