Get Instant Protection: Measles Vaccination Tips for Healthy Living - Health

Measles Vaccination Campaign Urges Public to Attend Free Clinics

The recent rise in measles cases has sparked concerns in both Ireland and Northern Ireland . In the past six months , there have been a total of 68 cases reported in the Republic of Ireland , with 18 of those cases occurring in children under five years old . Meanwhile , Northern Ireland has recorded 11 cases of measles within the same timeframe , prompting the Public Health Agency ( PHA ) to launch a mumps , measles , and rubella ( MMR ) vaccine catch - up campaign.

Get Instant Protection: Measles Vaccination Tips for Healthy Living

The MMR vaccine is the only protection against measles , and you only need to receive two doses in your lifetime to provide you with full protection . The disease is highly infectious and can cause a number of serious complications for people of all ages - but children under one year of age , pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk.

The decline in vaccine uptake in recent years has put Northern Ireland below the recommended 95 % vaccination rate set by the World Health Organisation ( WHO ) . This has led to an increase in the number of reported measles cases , particularly in February , when Northern Ireland reported its first case of the disease since 2017.

Free Catch - Up Clinics Offered in Cork and Kerry

To combat the spread of measles , free catch - up clinics will be available in primary care centers in Clonakilty and Mallow next week . The clinics aim to target key groups , including children , young adults , health and care workers , as well as anyone born in Ireland after January 1st , 1978 , who may have missed an MMR vaccine . Additionally , those born outside of Ireland without evidence of two MMR vaccines at any age are advised to schedule a vaccination.

The MMR vaccine is vital in preventing measles outbreaks , as evidenced by the 10 outbreaks reported in the Republic of Ireland in 2024 . With measles being highly contagious and potentially leading to severe complications , including pneumonia and brain swelling , it is crucial to ensure full protection through vaccination.

Preventative Measures and Recommendations

For families planning to travel outside of Ireland , it is recommended to vaccinate babies between 6 and 11 months before traveling . They should then receive their next dose at 12 months and the final dose in junior infants . Babies over six months visiting areas where measles is prevalent should be vaccinated two weeks prior to travel.

Dr. Anne Sheahan , Area Director of Public Health for Cork and Kerry , emphasizes the importance of receiving both doses of the free MMR vaccine for full protection against measles and other highly contagious conditions . The HSE encourages the public to attend the free catch - up clinics to ensure they are up - to - date with their vaccinations and protected against potential outbreaks.