A SECOND measles case has been confirmed in Jersey in under a month, prompting Public Health officials to urge Islanders to check their vaccination status.
Before the first case was confirmed earlier this month the Island had been free of the disease for eight years.
The second case is not connected to the first, officials have confirmed.
Public Health director Peter Bradley said that “all possible precautions to help stop onward transmission are taking place”.
He encouraged Islanders to check their measles, mumps, and rubella vaccination status and be aware of the symptoms of measles.
Prof Bradley explained: “The best way to protect yourself and your children from measles is through the MMR vaccination which is highly effective and safe.
“I encourage all Islanders to make sure that they are fully vaccinated.”
He added: “Measles is circulating in parts of the UK and Europe, so it is especially important that islanders check they are up to date with their vaccine schedule before travelling abroad.
“Jersey’s vaccination rates are high, but we know that there are some people who are eligible for the vaccine and have not had both doses.
“This puts them at risk, especially if travelling off island to places where measles is circulating.”
Measles is a highly contagious disease and can be very serious in those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or aged under one year old.
The disease has been circulating in some parts of the UK and other European countries recently.
Anyone not sure if they or their child have received their vaccine can check by contacting their GP surgery or the Childhood Immunisation Team on 443741
What are the symptoms?
Cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough
Sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light
A high temperature (fever)
A red-brown blotchy rash will appear after a few days – this usually starts on the head or upper neck
