Travellers warned of measles outbreaks

SCOTS families jetting off on European holidays during the Easter break have been urged to vaccinate their children against measles following a rise in cases on the Continent.

Health Protection Scotland has issued a statement advising parents travelling to France to ensure that their children have received the MMR vaccine.

The statement, on the Travax website, reads: "Parents who are planning a holiday in France and have not had their children vaccinated or fully vaccinated against measles should ensure that their children have received the requisite number of doses of MMR vaccine for their age.

"Unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may be considered for vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection"

The move follows an outbreak in mainland Europe, where several countries including Denmark, France, Germany and the Netherlands have had increased numbers of measles cases so far this year, as reported by the World Health Organisation.

France reported more than 1,500 cases in 2009, more than 4,500 cases in 2010 and nearly 1,000 cases in January 2011. Turkey recently reported an outbreak in Istanbul, as well as cases linked to a large outbreak in Bulgaria in 2010.

Meanwhile the Health Protection Agency (HPA) has issued advice to schools in England to make sure children are protected against the illness. A spokeswoman said overseas travel is an important factor in the spread of measles and that HPA units are writing to schools and health professionals in their local area.