The HSE has begun the rollout of the MMR vaccine as part of a catch-up programme following an increase in the number of measles cases reported across Europe.
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella, the first dose of which is generally administered to babies at around one-year-old as part of the childhood immunisation schedule. The second dose is generally given in Junior Infants.
However, uptake rates have fallen to below the 95 per cent target set by the World Health Organisation, which has warned that reduced uptake in the population poses an increased risk of measles infections in children.
According to the Department of Health, "those born in Ireland before 1978 are likely to have immunity to measles".
Five cases of measles have been identified in the State in recent weeks. Among them was a 48-year-old man who died in early February having contracted the infection in the UK.
An increase in reported cases of measles has also been noted across mainland Europe and the UK.
Concerned about measles?
Find out about the signs, symptoms and how to protect yourself and your family by visiting our website here: https://t.co/QPH94rJhsI pic.twitter.com/XZgUcT8tf0— HSE Ireland (@HSELive) March 19, 2024
The director of the HSE's national immunisation office, Dr Lucy Jessop, described measles as "highly infectious and can be an acute and serious infection".
"It causes a rash illness, with cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis and high fever. Complications of measles include ear infections, pneumonia, febrile seizures and, less commonly, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and even death," she added.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are administered for best protection.
The catch-up programme aims to target three key groups who may have missed their MMR vaccines in the past: children, young adults, and health and care workers.
In addition to those who have never received a dose of the MMR vaccine, those who did not or are unsure whether they received a second dose are also urged to avail of the catch-up programme.
"The only protection against measles is vaccination," Dr Jessop said.
"Two doses of MMR vaccine are needed, and if a child or young adult is not fully protected, then MMR vaccines can be obtained from your GP or HSE vaccination clinic."
The vaccines are available free of charge from GPs for all age groups, but particularly under 18s, and from HSE community clinics for all eligible people over five-years-old.
The HSE said targeted vaccine clinics will also be established for specific groups, including students, refugees, and international protection applicants.
Further information on measles, the MMR vaccine, and the catch-up programme can be found on the HSE website.
