The first case of measles in Bermuda for some 25 years may have been detected, according to the Department of Health.

The case is now being investigated by the Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit.

Those close to the affected individual are being informed and advised, according to a spokeswoman for the department.

She said that, although no cases of measles have occurred on the Island since 1990, the outbreaks in parts of the United States at present pose a particular risk to Bermuda.

The spokeswoman added: “Measles is still endemic in many parts of the world and outbreaks can occur in Bermuda when unvaccinated groups are exposed to imported measles virus, of if susceptible individuals travel to areas where measles is occurring.

“Measles can cause serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis [inflammation of the brain] and prevention of infection is important.

“Fortunately, measles is a vaccine-preventable disease. Assuring adequate protection from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases is especially important prior to travel abroad.”

She added that anyone not vaccinated against measles should contact their physician for advice.

Measles is spread by breathing in virus-containing droplets or touching contaminated surfaces, with symptoms first appearing ten to twelve days after exposure. Patients typically suffer several days of fever, coughing, sneezing and with a rash which typically starts on the head and face before spreading to the rest of the body. The virus can be transmitted up to four days before and after the rash appears, meaning that those without symptoms can still be contagious.

While vaccines have limited the spread of the virus in North America, outbreaks of the virus rose sharply in the US last year. According to the US Centres for Disease Control, 121 measles cases have been diagnosed in the US this year, with 85 per cent of the cases representing a single outbreak linked to a California theme park.

For measles vaccinations, children should visit their paediatrician or the Child Health Clinic, located at the Hamilton Health Centre, 67 Victoria Street.

For more information about travel vaccinations, contact the Travel Clinic at 278-6460 or check the website www.health.gov.bm