THE Department of Health has confirmed that a teenager from the Isle of Man has a suspected case of measles.

It says it is likely that the teenager acquired the viral infection abroad as there have been several outbreaks of measles in many European countries.

People in close contact with the teenager have been identified, contacted directly and advised of the individual action that they need to take.

Measles is a viral infection which is highly infectious to someone who is not protected against it.

It can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis (infection of the ear), and middle ear infections.

Adults who develop measles are more prone to complications than children.

You are protected from measles if you have had the infection before or if you have had the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) immunisation.

The Public Health directorate of the Department of Health has issued the following advice to members of the public: 

- All individuals aged under the age of 40 need to check their immunisation history which can be done by calling your GP practice. If you have not received the measles vaccine make an appointment with your practice nurse to receive two doses of MMR.

- There have been major outbreaks of measles in many European countries. Recent arrivals from European countries to the Isle of Man need to ensure that they are registered with a local GP to obtain health care and ensure that all members of their family are fully immunised.

- All parents need to ensure that their children are fully immunised as recommended by their GP.

- If you or any member of your family develop symptoms of measles (fever, coughing, skin rash), please seek advice from your GP or Manx Emergency Doctors (MEDs) by telephone.  Do not attend A & E, your GP surgery or MEDs unless instructed to do so.

The last time measles was confimed in the Island was in September last year. For more on this click here.

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