Enfield Council is working closely with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the NHS and local partners to respond to a confirmed outbreak of measles in the borough.
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can spread very easily among people who are not fully vaccinated. While many people recover, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, brain inflammation and in rare cases, long-term disability or death.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Social Care, Cllr Alev Cazimoglu, said: “We are following national public health guidance to manage the situation, protecting residents and limiting further spread.
“The current outbreak has mainly affected children and some have required additional care with a short stay in hospital. Measles is one of the most infectious known diseases. It is approximately six times more infectious than Covid-19.
“Catching the measles is entirely preventable, but it spreads extremely quickly where vaccination levels are low. By checking your family’s vaccination status and taking up the free NHS vaccine, you are protecting not only yourselves but also vulnerable members of our community. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your family. We urge everyone who is not fully vaccinated to act now.”
Two doses of a measles-containing vaccine provide very high levels of protection and help prevent further outbreaks. High uptake is particularly important to protect people at greatest risk of severe illness. If you think you have the measles, you should isolate yourself if possible, and especially from those at greatest risk, including children under the age of 1 year, people with weakened immune systems and unvaccinated pregnant women.
You can check the symptoms of measles here: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/measles/ If you need help, please phone your GP or healthcare provider in advance rather than visit in person, to stop the spread of measles.
Enfield Council and health partners are asking residents to check whether they have had both doses of the vaccine known as MMRV or MMR:-
Adults who are unsure whether they have received two doses should contact their GP practice.
Children can be vaccinated through their GP or local catch-up vaccination clinics. Find out more and book an appointment: https://www.schoolvaccination.uk/catch-up-clinics/catch-up-enfield
Anyone not registered with a GP is strongly encouraged to do so as soon as possible to access free NHS vaccinations. Find out how: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/gps/how-to-register-with-a-gp-surgery/
Cllr Cazimoglu added: “We will continue to provide updates and will work with schools, community organisations and healthcare partners to support residents.”