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Islanders are being urged to keep a lookout for the symptoms of measles – after the island recorded its first case of the highly contagious disease in eight years.
Public Health said the affected individual is said to be recovering well at home and contact tracing is taking place, but are urging the public to stay on alert and ensure their vaccinations are up-to-date.
Measles can be very serious, particularly for those who are pregnant, under one year old or who have immune system deficiencies.
Grace Norman, Deputy Director of Public Health, outlined the importance of individuals being up-to-date with their vaccines.
"Measles is preventable by vaccination and once fully immune you cannot catch, carry or pass on the illness," she said.
"Jersey has good MMR vaccination rates which makes this a rare occurrence and reduces the chances of the disease spreading... The best way to protect yourself and your children is through the MMR vaccination, which is highly effective and safe.
"I encourage islanders to make sure that they and their children are vaccinated. It is particularly important to make sure that everyone is up to date with their vaccination schedule before travelling abroad given the higher number of cases of measles in other countries."
She also urged islanders to stay on alert for the symptoms of measles.
cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough
sore, red eyes that may be sensitive to light
a high temperature (fever)
a red-brown blotchy rash will appear after a few days. This usually starts on the head or upper neck.
Anyone not sure if they or their child have received their vaccine can check by contacting their GP surgery or the Childhood Immunisation Team on 01534 443741.
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