Department of Public Health Mid-West warns of poor MMR vaccine uptake in Clare
THE DEPARTMENT of Public Health Mid-West confirmed that it recently investigated a single case of measles in the Mid-West region.
It was the first case of measles in the country since 2020, and the first case in the Mid-West since 2018.
Measles is a highly contagious virus that can result in serious complications in in young children, pregnant women, and people with weak immune systems.
Measles is almost entirely preventable through vaccination. However, it requires 95% vaccine coverage to prevent outbreaks in the population. We are concerned about the uptake of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine in the Mid-West which has dropped since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the latest data, Limerick has one of the lowest rates of MMR uptake in the country (82.6%), followed by Clare at 89.1% and North Tipperary at 88.9% in the Mid-West region. Due to these rates, we are vulnerable to a measles outbreak in the community.
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses and spreads to others through coughing and sneezing.
Measles usually starts with fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes. It is followed a few days later by a red rash that starts on the head and spreads downwards over the face, neck and body. It can result in chest infections, fits, ear infections, swelling of the brain and brain damage.
We are encouraging all parents to ensure that their child is protected against measles. Two doses of MMR vaccine are recommended—the first at 12 months of age, and the second at 4-5 years of age.
If you are unsure if your child has been vaccinated, speak to your GP or your local health offices**.
Dr Breda Cosgrove, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at Public Health Mid-West, said: “This is the first case of measles reported in Ireland in more than two years, and it's a reminder of the threat posed by this highly contagious virus. In Limerick and across the Mid-West, we are not reaching 95% vaccination coverage that's needed to achieve community immunity and protection from this disease. MMR vaccine will protect your child against measles so it's really important to keep up-to-date with your child's vaccines. If you are delayed with your child's vaccines, please contact your GP practice to arrange an appointment.”