What to do if you think your child has measles and when to keep them off school.
Measles cases are increasing throughout England, particularly among children. This highly contagious infection can lead to severe complications for some individuals.
Since there is no specific medical treatment for measles, obtaining vaccination is crucial for the best defence against serious illness. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is part of routine childhood vaccinations, meaning most children are already immunised against measles.
If your child has received both doses of the vaccine, it is unlikely that they will contract the virus.
Here, we’ll provide everything you need to know about measles, from ensuring your child’s vaccination to knowing when to keep them away from school.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.
Symptoms of measles usually start to appear 7-14 days after you become infected, which include:
- Runny/blocked nose
- Sneezing
- High temperature
- Sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light
- Sore throat
- White spots inside the mouth
What does a measles rash look like?
Measles usually begins as flat red spots that appear on the face at the hairline and spread downward to the neck, body, arms, legs, and feet. Small, raised bumps may also appear on top of the flat red spots. The spots may become joined together as they spread from the head to the rest of the body.
What should you do if you think your child has measles?
If you suspect that you or your child might have measles, it’s important to request an immediate GP appointment or seek assistance from NHS 111.
Before visiting the GP or any healthcare facility, make sure to call ahead for guidance.
In the event of a measles diagnosis for your child by a doctor, it is advisable for them to refrain from attending nursery or school for a minimum of 4 days from the onset of the rash. Additionally, they should steer clear of close interactions with infants and individuals who are pregnant or have compromised immune systems.
What is the best way to protect against measles?
The best protection against measles for children and adults is to get both doses of the MMR vaccine.
MMR vaccination is available at Fleet Street Clinic for children and adults who would like catch-up on doses. If you or your child haven’t been vaccinated yet, or have an unfinished course of vaccines, either book an appointment online or contact our reception team on +44 20 7353 5678 to book an appointment.
We can usually accommodate same day appointments.
Alternatively, children receive the vaccine at no cost on the NHS at 12 months and then a second dose at 3 years and 4 months. You may find the NHS vaccination service has a longer wait time that us.
If you prefer a version of the MMR vaccine without pork products, please get in touch, explaining your preference and we will do our best to accommodate. It’s important to note that we would be ordering this product specially for you, so there may be a longer wait time for delivery and prepayment will be required. Either call our reception team on +44 20 7353 5678 or email info@fleetstreetclinic.com
Cold-like symptoms can be an early sign of measles. Should you still send your child to school?
If your child has been vaccinated, it’s very unlikely that they have measles. Check if they have a high temperature or a fever, and if not, we’d advise it’s fine to send your child to school.
Keep an eye on their symptoms and adapt accordingly if they worsen.
When should you keep your child off school or nursery and how long for?
If your child has measles, they should stay off nursery or school for at least 4 days from when the rash first appears and avoid close contact with babies and anyone who is pregnant or has a weakened immune system.
The school will let you know if your child has been in contact with someone who has measles and advise what you need to do.
They may advise people who are more susceptible to contracting the virus, such as unvaccinated siblings to stay away from school for the incubation period to be on the safe side.
The incubation period is the length of time it can take to develop the illness after being in contact with someone with measles. For measles, the incubation period can be up to 21 days.
Anyone, child or adult, who has been vaccinated is unlikely to be considered susceptible.
If you’re not sure whether your child is due a vaccination or has missed a vaccination, you can check their Red Book or contact your registered GP practice for confirmation.
If your child has missed their first or second dose of the MMR vaccine, we’d advise you book an appointment for catch up vaccines. You can book an appointment online.
Should you keep your child off school if another pupil has been diagnosed with measles?
Most children will be protected against measles and there is no need to keep your child off school if they have had both their MMR vaccinations.
Your school will let you know if your child has been in contact with someone with confirmed measles and will advise what the next steps are.
Can I still get my child vaccinated even if they’re older?
Yes. The MMR vaccine is suitable for adults and children, therefore, anyone who has not had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine can book an appointment for catch up vaccinations.
It’s best to have vaccines on time, but you can still catch up on most vaccines if you miss them. Two doses of the vaccine are needed to ensure full protection.
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