Ministry of Health spells out how you can minimize your risk
The Bermuda Hospitals Board’s Measles Patient Symptom Self-Assessment guide can help determine if you need medical advice or emergency care. Image supplied
The Ministry of Health is reminding travellers to take precautions against measles, a highly contagious disease that is more common in certain parts of the world.
This after two cases were confirmed on-island.
The first recommendation is to get vaccinated; check that you are up to date with the Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses are 97% effective at preventing measles.
You should be vaccinated against measles at least 2 weeks before international travel.
For children, the first dose is recommended at 12–15 months, and the second at 4–6 years.
For adults born since 1957, Government recommends that if you’ve never had measles or the vaccine, talk to your doctor to confirm that you’ve had two doses, at least four weeks apart.
In a press release today, the Ministry of Health also recommending safe habits during travel, such as wearing a mask in crowded places or on public transportation, washing your hands often – and staying away from people showing signs of illness.
Early symptoms of measles include fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose, sore red eyes, and feeling unwell. A rash typically appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the body. The rash lasts four to seven days.
If you feel unwell prior to travel, sick, postpone your trip and consult a healthcare provider. If symptoms develop during or after travel, the Ministry of Health recommends that you isolate yourself and seek medical care immediately.
The Health Ministry stating: “If you suspect you have measles, do not visit your GP’s office or the hospital without notifying them first. It’s crucial to avoid exposing others to the virus. Instead, call ahead to your healthcare provider to get guidance on the next steps. They will advise you on the best way to receive care while minimizing the risk to others. If symptoms worsen or you have difficulty breathing, call the Emergency Department at 239-2009 in advance to get instructions on how to access care safely.”
For more information or to address concerns about measles or the MMR vaccine, contact your doctor or the Hamilton Health Centre at 444-0720. Additional details on measles prevention and vaccination can also be found at www.gov.bm/measles and https://www.cdc.gov/measles/travel/index.html
