Measles outbreak warning as travellers heading to Christmas markets in Europe are at ‘high risk of deadly bug’
TRAVELLERS bound for the Christmas markets in Europe could spark a measles outbreak this side of the Channel, experts have warned.
Holidaymakers in search of some festive feels are at risk of catching the potentially deadly disease.
Public Health England (PHE) today urged those heading for Italy, Germany and Romania, in particular, to take extra care.
Health chiefs warned those people who haven't had both doses of the MMR vaccine, are at greatest risk of infection.
It comes as PHE confirmed three outbreaks in England are linked to people travelling to the continent.
There are currently 16 confirmed cases of measles in Leeds, 11 in Liverpool and nine in Birmingham.
Officials said all cases are among kids and adults who have not had two doses of the MMR vaccine.
The MMR jab is a combined vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
In order to be fully protected, it is important to have both doses of the vaccination.
Measles is highly infectious and can lead to serious complications.
Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at PHE, said: "The measles outbreaks we are currently seeing in England are linked to ongoing large outbreaks in Europe.
"People who have recently travelled, or are planning to travel to Romania, Italy and Germany and have not had two doses of the MMR vaccine are particularly at risk.
SPOT HORROR What is measles, is it contagious and is your child at risk? All you need to know...
"This serves as an important reminder for parents to take up the offer of MMR vaccination for their children at one year of age and as a pre-school booster at three years and four months of age.
"Children and young adults who missed out on their MMR vaccine in the past or are unsure if they had two doses should contact their GP practice to catch up.
"We'd also encourage people to ensure they are up to date with their MMR vaccine before travelling to countries with ongoing measles outbreaks."
MORE ON OUTBREAKS
The UK recently achieved World Health Organisation "measles elimination status".
But because of ongoing outbreaks in Europe, the UK will continue to see cases in people who have not been vaccinated and limited onward spread can occur in communities with low MMR coverage and in age groups with very close mixing, PHE said.
Anyone travelling to Europe in the next few weeks is advised to check the travel health advice.