Vaccination rates for measles are at a 10-year low which means the risk of outbreaks is rising, warns the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH). At least 95% of children should have had two shots of the MMR jab by the age of five, but figures from the RCPCH show only 84.5% had received their second dose – the lowest level since 2011. Read on to discover the signs and symptoms of measles and why it is so important for children to receive their vaccinations.

What is measles?

Measles is a highly infectious airborne virus. It usually starts with cold-like symptoms such as a high temperature, a runny or blocked nose, aches and pains, tiredness, loss of appetite, sneezing, coughing and watery eyes. This is then followed by a raised, blotchy rash a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Some people may also notice small white spots appearing in their mouth.

If you suspect your child has measles, it is important that you call your GP right away. It can usually be treated at home with plenty of rest and fluids, plus paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve the fever symptoms.

It usually takes 7-10 days for measles to pass. However, in some cases measles can lead to complications such as ear infections, severe diarrhoea and dehydration, pneumonia, blindness, encephalitis and even death. It is therefore important to keep a close eye on your child and phone NHS24 if their condition starts to worsen.

Remember, measles is highly contagious, so keep your child off school for at least 4 days after the rash first appears, encourage frequent and thorough handwashing, and avoid close contact with anyone who has not been fully vaccinated.

Protect your child

The best way to protect your child from diseases such as measles is to ensure they receive their routine vaccinations. The measles vaccines are usually administered when your child is 12 months old and 3 years 4 months old, however, it is never too late for your child to have their vital vaccinations. If you are unsure about what vaccinations your child has had or not had, speak to your GP and they can check their records.

Why choose YourGP

The medical professionals at YourGP can carry out a range of routine child vaccinations to protect them from serious illnesses such as meningitis, flu, measles, mumps and rubella. We also offer meningitis B, chicken pox and hepatitis B paediatric vaccines.

• We provide a complete range of baby jabs (excluding the single MMR vaccine)
• We provide advice on what vaccinations your child might require as part of the national schedule
• As a team, we’re skilled at keeping children calm and relaxed and can provide art materials and toys for them to play with
• We’re also well-practised at calming the nerves of anxious parents

If you have any questions about child vaccinations and you would like to speak to a medical professional, book an appointment at YourGP. You can choose a date and time that suits you via our simple online booking system, or you can email reception@your.gp. Alternatively, you call us on 0131 225 5656 or arrange a call back via our website.