There has been a recent increase in the numbers of measles cases in Scotland and the rest of the UK, mainly affecting younger adults. Many of the cases have been associated with recent travel abroad especially to France. A number of current measles outbreaks have been reported from France, Belgium and Switzerland.
Measles is highly infectious and can be a dangerous illness. It spreads easily in universities and summer camps. Those who are not fully immunised with two doses of MMR are most at risk of developing measles.
As we approach the time of year when many students are travelling abroad, Health Protection Scotland is urging students to protect themselves against measles. If you have missed out on having received two doses of MMR vaccine as a child or are not sure, please consider getting yourself fully immunised with MMR before you travel abroad during the summer break. Please contact your GP or practice nurse to arrange vaccination as soon as possible.