A GP has shared three of the early warning signs of a potentially fatal disease to spot as cases have soared in the UK. According to data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there have been 1,767 lab confirmed cases of measles nationwide in 2024 so far.
This is almost five times the amount of cases reported for the whole of 2023, when there were 362.
The latest outbreak started in October last year, with the majority of early cases found in the West Midlands.
However, other parts of the UK have since been affected and cases peaked in April, with 381 reported in just one month.
Measles is a highly contagious infection typically characterised by a rash. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable and it can lead to deadly complications such as pneumonia and seizures if not caught in time.
Therefore, it is important to be aware of any of the early symptoms.
With this in mind, a GP revealed the signs you should be looking for.
Doctor Donald Grant, senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy, explained: “Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that is spread through coughing and sneezing, it’s one of the most spreadable diseases which has led to a sharp increase in cases across the UK.
“With over 1,500 reported instances of measles so far this year, it’s important to understand the telltale signs of the infection and what to do should you contract the illness.
“Symptoms of measles typically begin around seven to 14 days after infection and are particularly dangerous to young children and those with weakened immune systems – proving fatal in some cases.”
Symptoms
He shared three early symptoms you shouldn’t ignore.
Dr Grant continued: “So, what are the symptoms of the viral infection?
“If you’re experiencing a high fever, tiny white spots or conjunctivitis, you could be in the early stages of the illness.”
These will likely be followed by a rash. He said: “The rash stage then begins three to five days following these initial symptoms, starting at the face and quickly spreading to other portions of the body.
“These rashes typically last just under a week before fading.
“It’s vital that we’re aware of the signs of measles due to its highly infectious nature.
“Prompt awareness of this infection can reduce the spread and help people manage their symptoms more effectively.”
What should you do if you have measles?
Dr Grant recommended seeking “urgent” medical attention if you think you or your child has measles.
“It’s also incredibly important to isolate yourself from other members of your household and avoid public places,” he said.
“Should you need to go outside, such as to visit your GP, using a mask can effectively reduce levels of transmission.
“Keep an eye out for more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing.”
He added that paracetamol or ibuprofen could be used to help bring the fever down.
The NHS also lists a runny or blocked nose, sneezing and a cough as early signs of measles.
Vaccines
Getting vaccinated is the best method of protection against measles.
The MMR vaccine, which protects you from measles, mumps and rubella, is offered to all children in the UK through the NHS.
Dr Grant added: “To prevent the likelihood of future outbreaks in your home, ensure everyone has received their MMR vaccine, available through the NHS.
“This is vital for young children – who are at an increased risk of death if they contract the viral infection.
“Receiving the vaccination will help avoid these horrific symptoms while reducing the spread, which continues to rise throughout the UK this year.”
