MMR offered at community clinics after outbreak of measles in hospital

MMR Vaccine is the only protection against measles

In the same week that an outbreak of measles at Cavan General Hospital was announced, the HSE is set to run two community vaccination clinics in Cavan and Monaghan.

The HSE advise that the MMR Vaccine is the only protection against measles. Two doses of MMR Vaccine in your lifetime are needed to give full protection.

Clinics in Cavan and Monaghan will take place on Thursday, August 8 from 3-5pm in Ballinagh Health Centre (H12RK12); and on Tuesday, August 13 from 10am-12pm at the Community Vaccination Centre, St Davnets Campus, Rooskey (H18ED80).

Measles is a highly infectious disease that can cause serious complications, particularly in children under one year of age, pregnant women, and the immunosuppressed.

The MMR catch-up campaign aims to protect against measles due to a rise in cases of the disease in the UK and Europe.

The campaign focuses on delivering the MMR vaccine to key groups, who may have missed their vaccines in the past: children; young adults; and health and care workers.

Those eligible are those born in Ireland from January 1, 1978 and do not have evidence of two MMR vaccines, or if born outside of Ireland and do not have evidence of two MMR vaccines at any age.

If you are planning a holiday outside Ireland, you can now get your baby vaccinated before you go. They must be between 6 and 11 months. They should then get their next dose as normal at 12 months and the final dose in junior infants.

MMR vaccines are available free of charge from GPs to all groups, but primarily to those under 18 years, and from HSE community clinics for eligible people.

The HSE flagged the community clinics the day after management advised the public of an outbreak of measles in Cavan General Hospital.

The announcement cautioned 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 on Wednesday 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."