Measles signs and when to get help as hospital issues plea after child's death

Measles is rampaging through the country, posing a significant risk to children, with parents being urged to remain alert and understand when to seek medical assistance. As summer peaks, so too has the number of measles cases in the UK, casting concern over young ones just as school break approaches.

There's been a tragic turn of events at Liverpool's Alder Hey Children's Hospital where one child has reportedly succumbed to measles, according to the BBC. Recognised for its high contagion rate and the potential to cause fatal complications, the hospital refrains from commenting on individual cases due to confidentiality but implores parents to be vigilant.

An official statement from Alder Hey Children's Hospital read: “We are concerned about the increasing number of children and young people who are contracting measles. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness which can cause children to be seriously unwell, requiring hospital treatment, and in rare cases, death.

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“The number of children being treated at Alder Hey for effects and complications of measles is increasing (we have treated 17 since June). We treat children with a range of conditions and illnesses in our hospital, including those with compromised immunity due to other health issues, making them more susceptible to infections, including measles.

“We can prevent people, including children, from contracting measles through vaccination. Please protect yourself and vulnerable children and young people by ensuring you are fully vaccinated.”

Early measles symptoms:

• High temperature
• Runny or blocked nose
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Red, sore, watery eyes

You might also notice white spots on the inside of the mouth and back of the lips, along with a rash – the most identifiable symptom of measles. This rash typically begins on the face and behind the ears, then spreads to the rest of the body, creating blotchy-coloured and raised skin patches that aren't usually itchy.

Some individuals may be able to manage their measles symptoms at home with ample rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. However, others may require medical attention.

The NHSrecommends getting an urgent GP appointment or calling 11 if they following occur:

• You think your child under one has been in contact with someone who has measles
• You’re pregnant or immunocompromised and have been in contact with someone who has measles
• The ill person has a high temperature that won’t come down with medication
• The ill person has difficulty breathing
• The ill person isn’t feeding well or taking less fluids than usual
• The ill person is urinating less than usual or having fewer wet nappies

If measles goes untreated, it can result in severe complications as the infection spreads to the lungs and brain, potentially leading to conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, and seizures.

The NHS recommends calling 999 if you or your child experience:

• A seizure
• Severe difficulty breathing
• A rash that doesn’t fade when you press a glass against it
• A stiff neck
• Light becoming uncomfortable or painful
• Cannot keep their eyes open or becoming suddenly confused
• Limp or floppy movements or becoming non-responsive

For expectant mothers, measles can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, or having a baby with low birthweight. The NHS stresses: "It's important to get medical advice if you're pregnant and have been in close contact with someone who has measles."