Glastonbury warning over ‘highly infectious' disease as health officials urge festival-goers to take precautions

Scottish Sun

18 hours ago

Being vaccinated is the best form of protection against the disease - find out everything you need to know about the vaccine below
VIRAL THREAT Glastonbury warning over 'highly infectious' disease as health officials urge festival-goers to take precautions
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PEOPLE heading to Glastonbury and other festivals this year have been warned of about a "circulating" infection amid ongoing outbreaks across Europe.
With thousands set to head to Worthy Farm for the UK's biggest music festival, from June 25 to June 2, health officials are urging those attending to take precautions.
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Glastonbury festival-goers have been warned of measles after outbreaks across the Europe
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The virus is highly infectious and can lead to serious health complications - even death
Credit: Getty
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned measles is "circulating across the country" - with case numbers particularly high in the South West.
In its latest report, the UKHSA confirmed 109 cases of the Victorian-era disease were recorded in April and 86 in May.
And unvaccinated children aged 10 years and under have been the worst hit.
Families going abroad for their summer holidays this year, and people mixing in large crowds at festivals, has raised fears of another surge of measles cases across the country.
Dr Alasdair Wood, consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West, told ITV News: "We want festival-goers to enjoy their time at Glastonbury and other festivals this year.
"Being aware of the current health risks will help those attending enjoy their time, as much as possible.
"Measles is circulating across the country, and festivals are the perfect place for measles to spread.
"If you're not fully vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella, please contact your GP to see if you can get an appointment before coming to the festival.
"If you feel unwell or have been advised isolate as a result of measles or another infection, please continue to do so."
Measles is a serious illness that can cause complications in some people, particularly younger children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems.
Powerful new video urges all parents to protect their children from surge of deadly Victorian disease as millions 'at risk'
Most people with measles see it resolve on its own.
But serious complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation), or even death.
The virus is spread when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes, says the NHS.
And you're infectious from when you first have symptoms (around four days before the rash appears) until four days after you get the rash.
Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, such as a high temperature, runny nose, sneezing, and a cough, followed by a rash a few days later.
Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.
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Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, then a rash develops
Credit: Getty
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The best form of protection against measles is the MMR vaccine
Credit: Getty
A few days after the cold-like symptoms, a rash usually appears.
The rash starts on the face and behind the ears before spreading to the rest of the body.
Spots are sometimes raised and join together, and aren't usually itchy.
The most effective way to protect yourself and others from measles is through vaccination with the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine offer lifelong protection.
In the UK, children are typically offered the first dose at 12 months old and the second at three years and four months.
If you get measles, it's crucial to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage symptoms.
You should also stay home to prevent spreading the infection, as measles is highly contagious.
Seek immediate medical attention if you or your child experience difficulty breathing, seizures, confusion, decreased alertness, or signs of severe dehydration.
Other warning signs include severe vomiting or diarrhoea, chest pain, neck stiffness, or a rash that doesn't fade when pressed.