Measles cases both across the UK and locally are rapidly increasing and there has been a decline in individuals taking up the offer of vaccination against the infection.

We are asking all patients to familiarise themselves with the symptoms to ensure extra care is taken should you develop any of these. Complications of measles can include: Pneumonia, Meningitis, blindness and seizures.

Those patients not currently vaccinated against measles are being urged to consider the vaccination and to contact the practice to arrange an appointment for this if they wish to go ahead with vaccination.

Patients who have not had the vaccination against measles and do not wish to be vaccinated are asked to be vigilant and not attend the practice should they develop any of the common symptoms. These patients should contact the practice via telephone and follow the advice given.

The practice is taking the increase in cases seriously and has implemented extra measures to ensure that any patient with a potential case of measles are first consulted with via telephone and will only be invited to attend the practice where appropriate to do so. This is to ensure both patients and staff are protected from exposure to infection where possible.