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Measles in France (Val Thorens)

13 Feb 2019

French health authorities via a media report have reported a rise in measles cases at the Val-Thorens ski resort, one of the highest in the Alps and a popular destination for both French and foreign tourists. The ARS regional health agency for the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes district recorded 18 cases. The ARS recorded just eight cases in the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region in 2016; 45 in 2017 and 84 last year (2018).

Advice for Travellers

Travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure to measles virus, and facilitate the spread of disease to unvaccinated and susceptible populations. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-13 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 4 months. Unvaccinated adults who have not had measles themselves should seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding measles vaccination.

For further information see Measles.