It's officially festival season, with Glastonbury kicking off today (June 21) over in Somerset. Thousands of people have packed their wellies and tents and are ready to spend some time in the English countryside while listening to live music.
While there's a lot to be excited about, it's important to be wary of the risks too, as health experts have urged people at festivals to be cautious as infections can spread very quickly.
Currently, measles is spreading across the country and Europe, so it's important to be aware of the signs, and what to do if you suspect you've been infected.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, Consultant Epidemiologist at UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA), said: "Measles spreads very easily and can lead to complications that require a stay in hospital and on rare occasions can cause lifelong disability or death, so it is very concerning to see cases starting to pick up this year."
The UKHSA has also urged parents of young children, teenagers and adults to check that they are up to date with their MMR vaccines, especially before heading to things like summer festivals where they can spread more easily.
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What are the symptoms of measles?
A rash sometimes appears a few days after the cold-like symptoms (Getty Images/iStockphoto)According to the NHS, measles is an infection that "spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people".
The main warning signs to look out for are "cold-like symptoms followed by a rash a few days later," and some people also get "small spots inside their mouth".
The first symptoms of measles include:
- a high temperature
- a runny or blocked nose
- sneezing
- a cough
- red, sore, watery eyes
The small white spots may appear on the inside of the cheeks and back of the lips, and usually last for a few days.
A few days after the cold-like symptoms, some people experience a rash, which usually starts on the face and behind the ears, before spreading to the rest of the body.
What to do if you suspect you have measles
You're unlikely to have measles if you've had both MMR vaccines (Getty Images)You're very unlikely to have measles if you've had both doses of the MMR vaccine, or have had measles before, but it's important to know what to do if you are at risk.
If you experience these symptoms you should drink some water and contact the medical centre at the festival you're at.
If you think you or your child have measles you should urgently call your GP surgery before heading in. They may suggest you stay at home, and call you over the phone.
You can also call 111 or get help from 111 online.
Dr Bayad Nozad, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA South West, said: "We want festival-goers to enjoy their time at Glastonbury and other festivals this year. Being aware of the current health risks will help those attending enjoy the weekend, and other events this summer, as much as possible.
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"Measles is circulating across the country, and festivals are the perfect place for measles to spread. If you're not fully vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella, please contact your GP to see if you can get an appointment before coming to the festival. If you feel unwell or have been advised isolate as a result of measles or another infection, please continue to do so."
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