With the summer travel season looming, the Ministry of Health has released advice on protecting oneself against measles.
Measles is a highly infectious disease and is most likely to be transmitted in enclosed spaces with lots of people, such as public transport. It can spread through the air. Among the most common symptoms are a characteristic rash on the skin, fever, a cough, and reddened eyes. In most cases patients can recover without further consequences, but some people may suffer serious complications that can even be fatal.
Babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. The Ministry advises that vaccination is the best protection against measles.
In Luxembourg, the vaccine is generally administered in association with the mumps and rubella vaccines, in the form of a single combined injection. It can also be offered in association with chicken pox, particularly in infants or people who have never contracted chicken pox. Complete protection relies on two doses.
"People born before 1970 have, in principle, been exposed to measles, sometimes asymptomatically. Those born after 1970 who have not received two doses of the measles vaccine are particularly invited to complete their vaccination", writes the Ministry.
If someone should develop symptoms after a trip abroad, they should contact their doctor via telephone immediately and let them know where they have travelled.
