Important – Case of Suspected Measles
Public Health England has been informed that there has been a suspected case of measles in Q3 Academy, Great Barr.
What is measles?
Measles is a disease which spreads very easily. People with measles can get a cough, runny nose, rash and fever. Measles can be serious, particularly for people whose immune, system is not working normally. The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination.
What is the risk of catching measles?
Most older children and adults are immune to measles – either because they had measles as a child or because they have been vaccinated – and so are very unlikely to catch measles.
Who needs medical advice?
- People with a weakened immunity: You should contact your doctor straight away if you have weakened immunity (due to illness or medication). The doctor will then assess whether you are immune (i.e. have antibodies) against measles; and if the exposure was within the past few days, your doctor may be able to organise treatment to prevent you becoming seriously ill.
- Pregnant women: If you are pregnant and not sure of your immunity it may also be worth seeking your doctor’s advice.
- Children under one year: If you attended with an infant aged under one year, please also contact your doctor for advice.
If you are well and not in the groups listed above you do not need to take urgent action. However if you are unsure if you are protected from measles, check with your doctor. If you would like more information on measles visit http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles/Pages/Introduction.aspx
What if you become unwell?
If you become unwell and think it could be measles you should see a doctor. You should ring the doctor or clinic beforehand so they can make sure you do not pass the disease to others in the waiting room.
Take this information sheet with you and tell your doctor that you have been in the same room as someone with infectious measles. Your doctor should seek advice from the local Health Protection Team (postcode search for local unit and phone number at https://www.gov.uk/contacts-phe-regions-and-local-centres).
