Measles Clinical Alert

Measles outbreaks

The most recent measles epidemiological report from the UK indicates that measles cases, and outbreaks of measles are occurring in the UK. Between 1/10/2023 and 18/1/2024 198 cases and 104 outbreaks occurred in the West Midlands alone. 

High levels of travel between Ireland and the UK means that there is a high probability that case of measles will be imported. Measles is highly contagious by airborne transmission. The R0 for measles is estimated to be 12-18. 

MMR vaccine

MMR vaccine rates have fallen in the last four years. National uptake of the first dose of MMR has been below 90% for seven consecutive quarters. MMR uptake is as low as 77.3% in one CHO area. This all means there is a high chance of measles cases and outbreaks in Ireland. 

Children aged between 14 months and 10 years old inclusive who did not receive the MMR vaccine when they were 12 months old and/or aged 4-5 years old in junior infants are eligible for the MMR Catch Up Campaign (PDF, 258KB).

Clinical features 

Clinicians are advised to have a high index of suspicion for measles. Review a description of the clinical features. 

Reporting

Members who encounter a suspected case of measles should contact the Department of Public Health urgently for advice. Immediate preliminary notification of measles to your local Department of Public Health is a legislative requirement. 

Ventilation 

A room which people shared with a suspected case of measles should be ventilated and kept out of use for two hours, and in accordance with advice from the local Department of Public Health. 

Dr Scott Walkin, ICGP Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control Lead (AMRIC)