Measles in the United Kingdom (Wales)
04 Oct 2016
On the 23 September Public Health Wales
confirmed nine cases of measles infection in the Carmarthenshire area within the last month, 6 of which were directly linked to an individual that contracted the infection at the Green Gathering festival in Chepstow.
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness; it may be more severe in teenagers and adults, and can sometimes lead to serious complications. Events where people mix closely with each other provide the ideal place for the measles to spread. People are urged to be aware of the symptoms of measles, such as a high fever and rash, and to avoid attending public events if they are unwell.
Advice for Travellers
Young people who missed their MMR vaccines as children are vulnerable, especially if gathered in large numbers at an event. It should be confirmed that children and young people have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-13 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months. Unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.