The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an alert to parents over an illness that 'spreads faster than the common cold' and is 'a lot more serious'.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, it said: "Remember believing the wildest playground rumours? Sadly, measles spreads even faster than the gossip. Keep your child protected by staying up to date with their vaccines."

The update continues: "Playground rumours spread fast, but playground illnesses spread faster. Illnesses like measles can spread a lot faster than the common cold, and are a lot more serious.

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"Make sure your child is up to date with their vaccines." Initial symptoms of measles include a runny or blocked nose, a high temperature, a cough, sneezing, and red, sore, watery eyes.

A rash typically emerges a few days afterwards, beginning on the face and behind the ears before spreading across the rest of the body. The rash's spots are occasionally raised and join together to form blotchy patches, and they're not usually itchy.

The rash appears brown or red on white skin and may be more difficult to spot on brown or black skin. NHS guidance adds: "It's unlikely to be measles if you've had both doses of the MMRV or MMR vaccine or you've had measles before."

Request an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if:

• you suspect you or your child may have measles


• your child is under a year old and has come into contact with someone who has measles


• you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you're pregnant or have a weakened immune system


• you or your child have not had measles or two doses of either the MMRV or MMR vaccine and you (or your child) have been in close contact with someone with measles


• you or your child have a high temperature that has not come down after taking paracetamol or ibuprofen


• you or your child have difficulty breathing – you may feel more short of breath than usual


• your baby or young child is not feeding well, or taking less feeds or fluids than usual


• you or your child are peeing less than usual (or your baby has fewer wet nappies)


• you or your child feels very unwell, or you're worried something is seriously wrong

Measles can spread to others easily. Call your GP surgery before attending.

They may suggest a phone consultation or make arrangements for you to visit a section of the surgery where you're kept separate from others.