Source: Breakingnews.ieParents are advised to contact their local GP
The HSE is urging parents in the mid-west region to vaccinate their children against measles - after it confirmed an outbreak of the virus in Limerick.
A total of 15-confirmed cases have been, plus another linked case in Dublin. While a number of “suspect cases” are also being investigated.
It's believed the initial cause of the outbreak was via a patient who visited the Middle East over the Christmas period.
In a statement, the HSE said: “There are now fifteen cases of measles infection confirmed in Limerick City this year and a linked case confirmed in Dublin. These cases have attended a number of community and healthcare settings across the city. Most cases so far are associated with the Ballinacurra Weston and Carew Park (Southill) area of the city.”
“Official immunisation uptake statistics for the first dose of MMR (recommended at 12 months of age) show that uptake in Limerick city and county has been consistently just below the target of 95% which the WHO recommends for population immunity over the past number of years,” the HSE stated.
“The best protection against measles is to be fully vaccinated with two doses of the MMR (Measles-Mumps-Rubella) vaccine. All children should get MMR at 12 months of age and the second dose at 4-5 years of age. If your child missed their MMR vaccine you should contact your GP.”
