The French Authorities have reported an increased number of measles cases in France this year. Parents who are planning a holiday in France and have not had their children vaccinated against measles should ensure that their children have the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

It's never too late to get the MMR vaccine for your child - it provides the best possible protection against Measles, Mumps and Rubella.  Your GP will be able to provide advice on vaccination, or you can visit NHS Choices for more information.

Quick Q&A

Q: At what age can you have MMR?
A: MMR vaccination can be given from around one year of age.

Q: Is it necessary to have both doses to be protected?
A: Studies show that a single dose of measles-containing vaccine, such as MMR, protects against measles in about 90 per cent of people.   Two doses are recommended for the best protection.

Q: Can/should adults have MMR if they didn't have it when they were younger?
A: Yes. Travelers to areas where measles is common should ensure that they are fully immunised.

Q: I'm going on holiday soon and there won't be time to have it. What should I do?
A: If there isn't time to get MMR before you go away, do book an appointment with your GP for your child to have it as soon as you get back.  Whilst you’re away, initial symptoms of measles to look out for are:
             - a rash for at least three days; and
             - fever for at least one day; and
             - at least one of the following: a cough, a head cold or red sore eyes.

Q: What should I do if I'm abroad and I think my child has measles?
A: You should seek medical advice.  Make sure you have an up to date European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK. The EHIC is not a substitute for medical and travel insurance (you should have this as well), but EHIC does allow you to have emergency medical treatment on the same terms as French nationals.

More information is available form

NHS Choices information about the measles: www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Measles/Pages/Introduction.aspx

NHS Choices information about MMR: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Measles/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Travel advice on the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's website at: www.fco.gov.uk/en/travel-and-living-abroad/when-things-go-wrong/sick-injured