There have been two further measles outbreaks in schools within Enfield. There is no treatment for measles, only the vaccination to prevent catching it, which is part of the Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella (MMRV) injection. The MMR vaccine has now been updated to also protect against chicken pox (varicella).
Parents should ensure that their children are up-to-date with all their immunisations. This can be done by checking the child’s immunisations ‘red book’ or contacting the practice nurse here at the GP practice.
The possible long-term health complications from catching measles can be very significant and permanent. These can include:
- Hearing loss
- Blindness
- Pneumonia (infected inflammation of the lungs)
- Encephalitis (inflammation and swelling of the brain)
- Brain damage
- Death
- Pregnant women risk miscarriage, premature birth, or having a baby with low birth weight.
Do not put your child’s health at risk and do not leave them unprotected. Book your vaccination with the practice nurse here at the GP surgery. There are plenty of appointments available 7 days per week in addition to the catch-up clinics managed by the school nursing team. If you have any questions about any of the vaccinations offered to children in the UK, please speak to our nurses who can answer them for you.
