University students urged to be aware of measles signs following outbreak of disease

In recent months, there have been over 200 confirmed cases in the West Midlands, with the majority in Birmingham and a smaller number in Coventry.  The rise in cases in the region has been linked to a low uptake of the MMR vaccination.

Universities including Coventry, Birmingham and Aston, said they were advising students on the symptoms and how to prevent it.

Measles is highly contagious and is spread by coughs and sneezes.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said that cases are likely to spread rapidly across more parts of the country, unless people are vaccinated.

The University of Birmingham said it worked closely with the UKHSA and had been providing guidance to staff and students about measles infection prevention and vaccination.

Measles usually clears up within seven to ten days. However, complications can include meningitis, pneumonia, blindness and seizures.  Babies and young children, pregnant women and those with a weakened immune system are at an increased risk.

The disease can be caught at any age and can be fatal, but this is rare.

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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