Latest news with #AlasdairWood
The Irish Sun
an hour ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Glastonbury warning over ‘highly infectious' disease as health officials urge festival-goers to take precautions
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. Advertisement 4 Glastonbury festival-goers have been warned of measles after outbreaks across the Europe Credit: Getty 4 The virus is highly infectious and can lead to serious health complications - even death Credit: Getty The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned 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. Advertisement Read more on measles 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. Advertisement Most read in Health "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 Advertisement The virus is spread when an infected person breathes, 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. Advertisement 4 Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, then a rash develops Credit: Getty 4 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. Advertisement 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 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. Advertisement 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 Advertisement Expert answers MMR questions TO help deal with parental concerns, Professor Helen Bedford, a specialist in child public health at University College London, tells you all you need to know about the MMR vaccine. When is the vaccine given? The MMR vaccine is part of the NHS Routine Childhood Immunisation Programme. It's typically given via a single shot into the muscle of the thigh or the upper arm. The first dose is offered to children at the age of one (babies younger than this may have some protection from antibodies passed on from their mother, which start to wear off at about 12 months.) The second dose is then offered to children aged three years and four months before they start school. To check to see if you or your child have had the recommended two doses of MMR, you can look at their/your Personal Child Health Record, also known as the red book. If you can't find the red book, call your GP and ask them for your vaccine records. You are never too old to catch up with your MMR vaccine. If you see from your vaccination records that you did not receive two doses as a child, you can book a vaccination appointment. Is the vaccine safe? The MMR vaccine is safe and effective at preventing measles, mumps and rubella. In the UK, we started using the jab in 1988, so we have decades of experience using it. The jab is made from much-weakened live versions of the three viruses. This triggers the It takes up to three weeks after having the vaccine to be fully protected. Like any vaccine, the MMR jab can cause side-effects, which are usually mild and go away very quickly. This includes rash, high temperature, loss of appetite and a general feeling of being unwell for about two or three days. There is also a very small chance children can have a severe allergic reaction. But compared to the complications of Why was it linked with autism? In 1998, Andrew Wakefield and his colleagues published a now-discredited paper in medical journal The Lancet. The paper suggested that the MMR vaccine might be associated with autism and a form of bowel disease. It led to a sharp decline in vaccination rates. Even at the time, the research was considered poor. The Lancet retracted the story in 2010 after Wakefield's article was found 'dishonest' by the General Medical Council. He was later struck off and subsequently, in 2011, the British Medical Journal declared the story fraudulent. Does it contain ingredients from pigs? There are two types of MMR jabs: One with gelatin (animal/pig collagen), and one without it. For some religious groups, the inclusion of pig products is not acceptable. Those people should ask for the vaccine without gelatin.
Scottish Sun
5 hours ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Glastonbury warning over ‘highly infectious' disease as health officials urge festival-goers to take precautions
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 Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) 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. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 4 Glastonbury festival-goers have been warned of measles after outbreaks across the Europe Credit: Getty 4 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. 4 Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, then a rash develops Credit: Getty 4 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.
ITV News
2 days ago
- Health
- ITV News
Glastonbury Festival 2025: Measles warning as festival-goers urged to get MMR jab
Glastonbury festival-goers are being urged to make sure they are vaccinated against measles before heading to Worthy Farm. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is warning the highly infectious illness is circulating across the country, with high numbers in the South West and London. It says measles is easy to catch in environments like festivals or travelling. Glastonbury Festival gets underway in just under two weeks' time on 25 June and health experts say people need to be aware of the health risks so they can enjoy the event safely. These risks include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), weather-related illnesses, and the impact from drugs and alcohol. Dr Alasdair Wood, consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West, said: "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. "We are also seeing an increase in cases of STIs, with large rises particularly in young people. STIs aren't just an inconvenience – they can have a major impact on your health and that of any sexual partners. "Condoms are the best defence, but if you didn't use one the last time you had sex with a new or casual partner, get tested to detect any potential infections early and prevent passing them on to others. "Testing is important because you may not have any symptoms of an STI." Alison Bell, Acting Director of Public Health for Somerset Council, said: "Keeping yourself safe over the Glastonbury weekend is paramount. "Most health risks can be avoided by taking simple steps to help protect yourself, remembering to keep yourself cool and avoid excess alcohol can help keep you safe during periods of hot weather. 'We are encouraging everyone who attends the Festival to take some basic steps to protect themselves and others. "Familiarise yourself with the health and safety advice on the Glastonbury Festival website and app before you travel and encourage your friends to do the same. "Avoid travelling if you are feeling acutely unwell. Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol consumption, particularly in hot weather. "Wash hands regularly and carry hand sanitiser with you. Never take a BBQ into a tent - despite being out in the fresh air, carbon monoxide can build up to levels that can kill very quickly in enclosed spaces. "Stay safe in the sun by using sun lotion, wearing a hat and seeking shade in the hottest parts of the day. "Seek advice if you become unwell – there are medical facilities around the Festival site, including two dispensing and retail pharmacies.' The UKHSA has issued its festival and summer safety tips: Get your MMR vaccine Measles is currently circulating across the country, with high numbers of cases in the South West and London. Symptoms of measles include a high fever, sore red watery eyes and a blotchy red brown rash and is particularly easy to catch in environments when in close contact with others such as festivals or travelling. Measles is a highly infectious viral illness, so anyone with symptoms is advised to stay at home and phone their GP or NHS 111 for advice, before visiting the GP surgery or A&E, to prevent the illness spreading further. By far the best way to protect yourself and those around you from measles is the MMR vaccine. The UKHSA has recently urged parents of young children, teenagers and adults to check that they are up to date with their MMR vaccines, particularly before they travel this summer and before attending summer festivals where measles can spread more easily. It is never too late to catch up: If anyone has missed one or both doses of the MMR vaccine, contact your GP practice to book an appointment. Prepare for the weather While it's too early for a forecast for this year's festival, it's important to pack for all possibilities. Remember to pack wellies/sturdy boots as well as appropriate changes of clothing should the weather change, e.g. waterproofs, it can be hot in the day and chilly at night, so bring something to keep you warm too. Hot weather in particular can pose a health risk for some people. Festival guests are reminded to stay safe during periods of hot weather, especially when walking around the Festival. Remember to carry a refillable water bottle with you and drink it throughout the day, wear sun cream and a sunhat and avoid excess alcohol. Remember to look out for one another. Keep a look-out for signs of heat-related harm in yourself, your friends, and other people around the Festival. The signs include: a headache; dizziness and confusion; loss of appetite and feeling sick; excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin; cramps in the arms, legs and stomach; fast breathing or pulse; a high temperature of 38C or above; being very thirsty. If you experience any of these symptoms, drink some water or diluted fruit juice to rehydrate, find somewhere shaded to sit down and rest and avoid excess alcohol. If symptoms have not gone away after 30 minutes of resting, seek help from one of the medical centres at the Festival. Practice safe sex: Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly syphilis are increasing. UKHSA is reminding everyone having sex with new or casual partners before or at the Festival to wear a condom and get tested regularly, whatever their age or sexual orientation. Testing is free and confidential and you should get tested even if you are not showing any symptoms. Be tick aware: UKHSA is also encouraging people to 'be tick aware' by regularly checking clothing and exposed skin for ticks that might be crawling on you and brushing them off immediately if outdoors this summer. Peak tick season in the UK usually begins in March, with most bites commonly reported during May and June and ends in October, although ticks can be active all year round. The use of insect repellents such as DEET can repel ticks and prevent them from climbing onto clothing or attaching to skin (always follow the manufacturer's instructions). If you spot a tick, you must remove as soon as possible using a tick-removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers. These can be purchased in pharmacies. To remove a tick, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upwards slowly and firmly. Avoid illegal substances: The message from Glastonbury Festivals is not to use illegal substances on the site. The dealing in or use of illegal drugs is not condoned by the festival and drug enforcement laws are as applicable on the festival site as anywhere else in the country – you risk being evicted from the site if found with them. Festival attendees are reminded if they do ignore that advice and become ill or experience unusual effects from any substances taken, to seek immediate help from the medical or welfare services on site who can provide help and support. Polydrug use – using more than one drug at a time – intensifies the effects of the drugs, making them more dangerous. Mixing alcohol alongside other drugs is one of the most common forms of polydrug use and can seriously increase the strength and impact of those substances, increasing the chances of a potentially fatal chemical reaction. An overdose won't always look the same but some of the signs to look out for are: falling unconscious, very light shallow breathing or no breathing, loud raspy 'snoring' or gurgling, blue or pale lips or fingertips. If in doubt, seek medical attention immediately.
