Warning over European measles

The HSE issued a warning to parents today to have their children immunised against measles before travelling to Europe following an outbreak of the condition on the continent.

Dr Brenda Corcoran, the head of the HSE National Immunisation Office, said there is an increased risk to Irish children and teenagers who are not fully vaccinated against measles during the summer months.

Over 21,000 cases of the highly infectious disease have been reported in Europe since the beginning of the year, with more than half the cases reported in France. Six children died in France from the condition, 14 suffered neurological complications and 444 suffered severe pneumonia.

Outbreaks were also reported in Germany, Romania, Switzerland, Spain, Belgium, Denmark, the United Kingdom and Italy.

In Ireland, the free measles vaccine is supplied as part of the MMR, which also immunises against mumps and rubella. It is usually administered at 12 months old and at four to five years old. Two doses will provide immunity to 99 per cent of recipients.

Some 110 measles cases were detected in the State so far this year, at least eight of which were due to infection while travelling in Europe.

In 87 of the cases, the children were living in the eastern part of the country, and in 14 cases the children were under 12 months of age and too young to have been vaccinated. Almost half of the cases were in children who were eligible for vaccination but had not received any dose.

Dr Corcoran said only 90 per cent of Irish children over two years old had received the vaccine, which is below the target of 95 per cent to prevent measles outbreaks.

"Parents must make sure that their children and teenagers are protected against measles by ensuring they have been immunised with MMR before they visit Europe," she said.

"Parents should speak with their GP and get the vaccine for their child if needed. The vaccine is free."