Parents have been reminded to ensure their children are up to date with their MMR vaccinations in preparation for the start of the summer camp season.

The Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) made the announcement following last year's outbreak of the measles in Dublin, the Herald reports.

More than 200 youngsters were struck down with the condition after children at one summer camp were exposed to measles.

It was suggested by the HPSC that all parents should be asked to provide vaccination information as part of the routine data collected from each child attending a camp.

A report from the body stated: "In the event of a measles outbreak occurring, these children can then be excluded from the activities to protect themselves and others."

The first MMR vaccination is routinely given at 12 months of age and the second between the ages of four and five, but children and teenagers can be given the injections at later stages if they missed earlier doses.

Written by Donal Walsh

Comments