Childhood illnesses

Suspected cases of measles and whooping cough across the country have risen dramatically in recent years³ and across the first four months of 2024 were above expected levels.⁴

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is warning of local outbreaks in some areas and GPs are seeing children with these infections, sometimes for the first time in their career.³

Measles

What is it? 

Measles is an airborne viral infection,⁶ spread in tiny droplets from sneezes or coughs of someone with the infection.^1,5

It will usually pass in about a week^5,6 with no further problems;¹ however, it can lead to serious complications in some, including babies or those with a weakened immune system.^1,5 If it occurs in pregnancy, it may harm the unborn baby.⁵

Symptoms

Measles starts with initial cold-like symptoms including:^1,5

• A high temperature
• Runny nose, sneezing or coughing
• Red, sore or watery eyes
• Aches and pains, loss of appetite and lethargy.

Some may have small white spots in the mouth, which last a few days.⁵

A few days later, a skin rash with the following characteristics follows:^1,5

• Small red-brown spots
• Starts on the face, neck or ears before spreading to the rest of the body
• Not usually itchy but can be raised or form blotchy patches
• Normally fades after a week

Be aware that the colour of the rash may not show on darker skin tones so will appear as raised bumps. 

Treatment

After GP referral to confirm diagnosis, the following can help relieve symptoms:^1,5,6

• Plenty of rest
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration
• Paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve fever, aches or pain
• Use damp cotton wool to clean sore eyes.

Prevention

To prevent the infection from spreading, advise customers their child should:^1,5,6

• Stay away from nursery, school or work for at least four days from when the rash first appears
• Wash their hands regularly with soap and water
• Use tissues when coughing and sneezing then dispose of afterwards
• Avoid close contact with anyone who has a weakened immune system, is pregnant or isn’t fully vaccinated.

Once infected, the body develops lifelong immunity to the virus. ⁶ It can also be prevented for life by having the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.⁵

This is routinely given in two doses as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme, although people can be vaccinated at any age.¹

GP referral

Refer any customers with suspected measles or those who have been in close contact with someone who has been infected,¹ especially:

• Children under 1 year old
• Those who have not been fully vaccinated (both doses)
• Those who are pregnant
• Individuals with a weakened immune system.^1,5