Dear Early Years Providers,

Just a reminder of the briefing available for all early year’s providers tomorrow morning, there is no need to book just join by clicking on the link below…

Public Health Briefing for Early Years Leaders – Information on Measles

When: Friday 9^th February 2024 10.00am – 11.00am

Where: Microsoft Teams Meeting

Join on your computer, mobile app or room device

Click here to join the meeting

Meeting ID: 360 476 320 551
Passcode: DhAKaV

Cases of measles are growing in London and Birmingham. In the Midlands, cases have increased by 30% in a week, infections are occurring across all ages, not just children. However, among children under the age of five, the infection appears to be spreading the fastest, with 40% of those who test positive requiring hospital care. Whilst there are currently no reported cases of measles in Bristol, measles can spread very quickly. Bristol’s school age and young adult population currently has a ‘below safe’ level of measles vaccination.

Bristol City Council have agreed with UKHSA to develop a proactive local action plan, to try and get ahead of a possible measles outbreak by organising the delivery of MMR vaccinations. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, two doses provide the individual with 99% protection against catching measles. We are calling this briefing amongst Early Years leaders to explain more about the vaccination approach and key information you need to know about the disease.

It is important to note that Measles can spread very easily among those who are unvaccinated, especially in nurseries and schools. The MMR vaccine is our best line of defence against measles and will help stop outbreaks occurring in the community.

Health and Education teams are calling on all parents, guardians, and those who work with children to make sure they and their children are up to date with their two MMR doses. To see if you or your child is up to date with MMR vaccines, check your personal child health record, known as ‘the red book’, or contact your GP practice.

Unvaccinated staff who come into close contact with a measles case will have to isolate for up to 21 days. Having two doses of the MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent this. The MMR vaccine is free, safe, and effective on the NHS, whatever your age. Two doses provide the individual with 99% protection against catching measles.

If you have symptoms of measles, please stay at home and phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice. Do not visit a healthcare provider without calling ahead as Measles is extremely contagious and you will be putting others at risk.

Dawn Butler

Early Years Manager: Inclusion