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Measles in France

12 Apr 2018

Media reportsthat in southwest France, the largest administrative region, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is experiencing an epidemic situation of measles, according to French health officials. Since 1 January 2018, France has reported a significant increase in measles cases, recording 1346 cases. In Nouvelle-Aquitaine, more than half of the country’s cases have been reported (758).

Advice for Travellers

Travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure to measles virus, and facilitate the spread of disease to unvaccinated and susceptible populations. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-13 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 4 months. Unvaccinated adults who have not had measles themselves should seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding measles vaccination.

For further information see Measles.