Measles
Measles is a highly infectious, airborne disease that can be prevented by having two MMR immunisations. It can affect both children and adults,
and cause serious complications. Babies and immune compromised people are especially susceptible to the effects of measles.
Just being in the same room with someone who has measles can result in infection. The time between catching the virus and developing symptoms is usually around 10-12 days, but it can take up to 18 days. A person with measles is infectious from 5 days before to 5 days after the appearance of the rash.
The initial symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough and sore red eyes. After 2-4 days the rash appears, starting on the face and spreading down
the body over the next few days.
Anyone who thinks they might have measles should be isolated immediately and should call their GP or Healthline for advice, rather than visiting in person.
Watch out for bacteria this spring
Spring is upon us bringing blooms, lambs and a time for planting vegetable gardens. Spring farming and gardening can bring us into contact with
harmful bacteria.
Bacteria can contaminate soil, food or water or surfaces such as toys, bathroom taps or doors and benches. You get infected when you swallow
bacteria, for example, by touching infected animals or soil and then touching your mouth.
Bacterial infections can cause diarrhoea. Some people, especially children and older people can get very sick.
Keep clear of bugs this spring:
Keep clear of bugs this spring:
• Practice high levels of hand hygiene for you and your children: wash hands with hot soapy water (for at least 20 seconds) and drying (for at least 20 seconds) particularly after going to the toilet, after having contact with manure or soil and after contact with lambs or other animals.
• Keep up to date with general household cleaning and practice high levels of food safety. If you’re exploring the outdoors, ensure your food is kept cool and you carry hand-sanitiser or wipes to help avoid cross-contamination. Check your water source to avoid drinking contaminated water.
• Another bacteria known as Legionella can be inhaled or transmitted from compost, soil and potting mix. Wearing a face mask and gloves, hand washing and careful handling of compost, soil and potting mix are the best ways to avoid coming into contact with this bug which can cause serious pneumonia.
