Measles in France (Val Thorens): Update 1
18 Mar 2019
French public health authorities
report an outbreak of measles is continuing in the ski resort of Val Thorens (Auvergne-Rhone Alpes). As of 13 March 2019, there have been 53 cases of measles, nearly all of whom are seasonal workers aged 19 – 42 years. Cases linked to the outbreak have been identified in Belgium, Scotland and Denmark, as well as in the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe.
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 from measles.
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.