Measles outbreak in Cavan General

Management advise that visitors may have been exposed to the illness

There is currently an outbreak of measles in Cavan General Hospital, management have advised.

The announcement to advise members of the public who have been in the hospital as an inpatient or visitor in the last fortnight that they may have been exposed to the illness.

The hospital assure that they are still providing full emergency care if it is required.

The statement issued today by Su-Zann O'Callaghan, General Manager, Cavan & Monaghan Hospital explains: "For anyone who has attended, been admitted to or visited the hospital in the last 14 days please be aware that you may have been exposed to measles.

"If you display any symptoms of measles (including irritability, runny nose, red eyes, a hacking cough and fever that comes and goes, followed by rash spreading from the head downwards) please contact your GP by phone and advise them of your previous attendance at Cavan General Hospital.

"If you are concerned about any underlying conditions you may have, or are pregnant, and are unsure of your immunity status please contact your GP for advice.

The hospital authorities state that visiting is not advised at this time, unless in exceptional circumstances, and at the discretion of the ward manager.

"All visitors should be aware that they may be exposed to measles while visiting the hospital."