Written question WQ89799

Doctors in Wales are under a legal duty to notify suspected cases of measles so that each case can be investigated, and the necessary public health action taken. Suspected cases are based on symptoms and have not been confirmed by laboratory testing, these numbers usually far exceed the actual number of confirmed cases as other infections can also present with rashes similar to measles.

On the 1st November, Public Health Wales declared an outbreak in Cardiff (MMR vaccination urged as measles outbreak declared in Cardiff - Public Health Wales (nhs.wales). So far in Wales in 2023 we have had nine confirmed cases of measles, which are the first cases of measles seen in Wales since 2019. Eight of these cases are linked to the outbreak in Cardiff.

Public Health Wales are working closely with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board and Cardiff Council to ensure appropriate public health action is undertaken to bring the current outbreak to an end as quickly as possible. An extensive programme of contact tracing has taken place to help identify those who may be susceptible to infection and ensure that appropriate advice is given. Proactive communication has also been undertaken to encourage parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated, and adults who work with children to come forward for vaccination if appropriate.