Travellers warned of measles risk
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Travel insurance policyholders and other Britons heading abroad have been told there is a danger of measles.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) explains overseas excursions have resulted in incidents occurring in the UK.
Figures from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) found some 334 laboratory confirmed cases of the illness have been reported in England and Wales in 2011 to the end of April.
This is only slightly lower than the 374 noted during the whole of 2010.
Measles is highly infectious and symptoms include fever, coughing and red-brown spots on the skin.
Some 24 European countries have noted outbreaks of the illness and France has the largest number of cases to-date this year, although it is endemic in parts of Africa, Asia and India.
The FCO advises people to see their doctor before travelling to ensure vaccinations are up to date.
Taking out comprehensive medical and travel insurance is also recommended, with Britons warned to check for any exclusions.
Dr Mary Ramsay, head of the immunisation department at the HPA, says: “Measles is a highly infectious and potentially dangerous illness which spreads very easily.
“Whether you stay here in the UK or travel abroad it is crucial that individuals who may be at risk are fully immunised.”
The MMR vaccine will guard against the illness, as well as mumps and rubella, although previous controversy may mean some young adults have not received the jab.
Dr Ramsay explains coverage of the vaccine has improved, but claims she “cannot stress enough” how important it is to guard against measles, which can be fatal.
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