Health Dept. Measles Immunization Advisory

July 25, 2012

The Department of Health would like to remind residents travelling overseas this summer to events such as the Olympic Games in London to make preparations to be vaccinated against measles before travelling abroad.

A spokesperson said: “Measles may cause serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis and is still common in many parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, the Pacific and Africa and worldwide about 20 million people get measles each year.

“The Department of Health advises that measles spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes and easily spreads to unvaccinated people. So you can get measles if you are in the same room or place as in infected person and even after they leave and the measles virus can stay in the air for up to 2 hours.

“When travelling, you could be exposed to infected people almost anywhere, including airports, airplanes, buses, hotels, restaurants and stadiums.

“The public is also advised that they should be up to date on all other routine vaccinations including measles, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, and influenza, before leaving on their travels and visit their local physician or healthcare provider to see what vaccinations they might need.

“Apart from seeing your health care provider, you may contact the Travel Clinic at 278-6460 before travel to get any additional vaccinations (e.g. Yellow Fever), medications (e.g. anti-malarial) and information you may need to stay healthy.”