Warning Issued to Passengers on Bus from Dublin Airport to Tipperary Due to Measles Exposure

Passengers who travelled on a bus from Dublin Airport to Tipperary have been issued a warning following the discovery that a person on board had measles. The HSE has issued an alert for individuals who travelled on JJ Kavanagh bus number 717 from Dublin Airport to Clonmel departing at 4 pm last Saturday, August 17.

The alert specifically targets pregnant women, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those under the age of 12 months. These passengers are urged to immediately contact their GP or hospital clinician for advice, as immediate treatment may be beneficial.

All passengers on the bus have been asked to remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of measles for the next two to three weeks. These symptoms include cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, cough, sore red eyes, a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above, and a rash, which usually appears on the head and neck first and spreads to the rest of the body.

Those exhibiting these symptoms are advised to stay at home in a separate room and seek healthcare advice. They should also phone ahead before attending any healthcare setting to inform them of their symptoms and the potential exposure to measles. It is recommended that anyone experiencing the aforementioned symptoms and with further travel arrangements should refrain from travelling and seek medical advice.

Furthermore, individuals who have received two MMR vaccinations or have had measles in the past are well protected against measles infection. The public is encouraged to ensure they are up-to-date with their MMR vaccinations, which can be arranged with their GP.

See also

Travel

Foodie Delights: Peak the Top Lisbon Restaurant Winners

The rise in measles cases across Europe this year has prompted concern, with 85 confirmed cases in the country so far. Although there has been an increase in cases, a vaccination campaign was implemented earlier this year, preventing a surge in cases. Thirteen outbreaks of measles have occurred in family homes, schools, residential institutions, and hospitals in Ireland, with up to twelve people affected in the worst outbreak.

Notably, the highest number of cases has been observed in the 25 to 34-year-old age group, with younger age groups, including infants, also affected. Measles is highly contagious and spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. Infected individuals are contagious approximately four days before the onset of the rash and up to four days after the rash appears.

Measles can lead to severe complications if it spreads to other parts of the body, including the lungs or brain. These complications may include pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, seizures, and, in rare cases, miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth in pregnant women.

It is essential for individuals, particularly those in high-risk groups, to stay informed about the symptoms of measles and seek medical attention if necessary to prevent further spread of the infection.