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Cases of measles are on the rise in Europe and parts of the UK. There have been very few cases of measles in Scotland but there remains a risk of infection for those who have not been fully vaccinated with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.  

The measles can sometimes result in serious complications. Anyone can get measles if they haven’t been vaccinated or haven’t had it before. It is more common amongst children, but this doesn’t mean adults aren’t at risk too.  

In most cases, measles will pass in around seven to 10 days without causing further problems. However, in some cases measles can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications such as lung infections (pneumonia) and brain infections (encephalitis).  

Measles is one of the most infectious diseases, it is spread by tiny droplets that come out of the nose and mouth when an infected person coughs or sneezes. 

The uptake of the MMR vaccine has declined across the whole of the United Kingdom in recent years. Having two doses of the MMR vaccine gives you the best chance to be fully protected from measles.  

Dr Keith Allan, Consultant in Public Health, NHS Western Isles, said: “Measles spreads very easily. It’s unpleasant and can sometimes have serious life-threatening complications.  

“Having the safe and effective measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best way to prevent measles. MMR is usually given in two doses in childhood but can be given at any age if you haven't been fully vaccinated before. 

“It's really important to have both doses if you can so that you get the proper protection for yourself or child.” 

You can prevent the spread of measles by getting vaccinated. NHS Scotland offers two doses of the MMR vaccine to children at roughly 12 months then three years and four months of age. If you or your child missed the vaccine at these ages, they can be given be given at any age.  

If you would like to arrange an appointment for the MMR vaccine in the Western Isles you can phone the Western Isles Vaccination Helpline on 0808 196 8383 or email wi.vaccination@nhs.scot (phoneline open Monday to Friday: 9am – 5pm).  

Symptoms of measles 

Measles can spread quickly and very easily between people. The first symptoms of measles develop around 10 days after you’re infected. These can include: 

• cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough 
• sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light 
• watery eyes 
• swollen eyes 
• a high temperature (fever), which may reach around 40°C (104°F) 
• small greyish-white spots in the mouth 
• aches and pains 
• loss of appetite 
• tiredness, irritability and a general lack of energy 

The measles rash appears around 2 to 4 days after the initial symptoms and normally fades after about a week. The rash usually has the following characteristics:  

• is made up of small red-brown, flat or slightly raised spots that may join together into larger blotchy patches 
• usually first appears on the head or neck, before spreading outwards to the rest of the body 
• is slightly itchy for some people 

If you haven’t been vaccinated or had the measles before, and you do catch it, it’s important to know how to prevent spreading it to others: 

• stay off school or work for at least four days from when the rash first appears 
• regularly wash your hands with soap and water 
• use and dispose of tissues when you sneeze 
• avoid close contact with anyone who isn’t fully vaccinated