Measles outbreak confirmed in Preston warns Lancashire County Council health boss

A measles outbreak has been confirmed in Preston.

The UK Health Security Agency says the North West region has the second highest number of infections in England, with 41 cases confirmed since February 5.

Lancashire's Director of Public health has now released a statement following a rise in cases in the Preston area.

"I can confirm that we have had a measles outbreak in the Preston area," said Dr Sakthi Karunanithi.

"While the numbers are currently low in Lancashire, measles is highly infectious and can spread quickly among communities, such as schools and nurseries, particularly if people are not up to date with their MMR vaccine.

"One in five children will need a hospital visit if they become unwell with measles and around one in 15 measles cases can have complications such as meningitis, sepsis and blindness.

"The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and is the best protection against becoming seriously unwell.

"There are two types of MMR vaccine, and one does not contain pork gelatine. You can request a vaccine without pork gelatine from your GP practice when you book your appointment.

"If any of your children have missed any of their MMR vaccines, contact your GP surgery to book an appointment."

"You should also call your GP or 111 for advice if you think you or your child might have measles.

"Symptoms include a runny nose, cough, high fever, sore red watery eyes and a blotchy red-brown rash.

"Please do not just turn up to your GP, walk-in centre, or any other healthcare setting without calling ahead.

"The doctor will make special arrangements to see your child so that, if they have measles, they won’t pass it to others."

"Visit the NHS website for more information about measles and the MMR vaccine."