Rotterdam health officials warn of measles risk ahead of Easter and King’s Day
Public health officials in the Rotterdam-Rijnmond region have issued a renewed warning about the risk of measles infections ahead of Easter, King’s Day, and the upcoming May holidays, De Telegraaf reports. The call comes after dozens of measles cases were reported in the region since February, the GGD Rotterdam-Rijnmond announced.
The GGD emphasized that symptoms such as fever, coughing, eye inflammation, and skin rashes may indicate a measles infection. People experiencing any of these symptoms are urged to stay at home. “This is how we can prevent the further spread of measles together,” the health service wrote in a message posted on social media.
The warning is part of a broader public health concern, as measles cases have been rising internationally. The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for stronger global measures to curb the spread of the highly contagious disease. Dozens of countries, including the Netherlands, are currently experiencing outbreaks.
Travelers from the Netherlands heading to Morocco or Romania during the May vacation are being advised to get the MMR vaccine—measles, mumps, and rubella—if they have not already received it. The GGD stated, “Prefer not to be vaccinated? Then try to avoid contact with people who have measles during your trip.”
Travelers are also being advised to stay alert after returning home. “Pay close attention after returning whether you develop any symptoms and suspect measles,” the GGD said. “If so, stay home immediately and call your doctor.”
