Second case of measles confirmed in Scotland since October

Public Health Scotland is encouraging anyone who has not had the MMR vaccine to get it

The vaccine is generally given to children
Author: Kieran BrandPublished 25th Jan 2024

A case of measles has been confirmed by Scotland's public health body – the second since October last year.

Public Health Scotland is encouraging anyone who has not had the MMR vaccine to do so, in an effort to stop the spread of the virus.

Anyone who has not had both free jabs is being asked to visit the NHS Inform website to find out how they can arrange an appointment in their local health board area.

Measles can lead to serious health complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis and it can affect any unvaccinated person at any age.

The vaccine is generally given to children aged 12-13 months, with the second dose later offered to children aged three years and four months.

But it can be administered at any age if it’s missed.

Dr Sam Ghebrehewet, head of vaccination and immunisation at PHS, said: "As measles cases continue to increase across other parts of the UK and Europe, we're working with health boards to ensure that as many people as possible are fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.

"Two doses are needed to give full protection."

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