Measles has been in the news recently due to increasing concerns over a potential outbreak, and there are nationwide efforts to encourage a greater uptake of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine for those who need it
Measles is an infection which spreads very easily and can cause serious problems in some people if they are not vaccinated, or have weakened immunity, or are pregnant.
If you haven’t been vaccinated, or have had only one dose of MMR vaccine, you can call the UCD Student Health Service 01-7163134 to arrange your free MMR vaccine appointment.
If you are unable to confirm 2 MMR vaccinations, we recommend you arrange to have a MMR vaccination to protect yourself and others.
What are the symptoms of measles?
The first symptoms of measles include:
Patients may initially have white spots in their mouth (Kopliks measles) followed by a typical Measles Rash after a few days.
If you think you are infected
Please isolate immediately and contact your own GP or contact UCD Student Health Service via email ((opens in a new window)student.health@ucd.ie) or by telephone (01 716 3134).
If you do have measles, you must avoid work or University for at least 4 days from when you first developed the measles rash and avoid contact with young children, pregnant women or other vulnerable groups.
How do I protect myself and others?
Most people already have immunity to measles through the MMR vaccine or exposure to the illness as a child.
How do I know if I’ve had the MMR vaccine?
The best thing to do if you’re not sure of your vaccination status is to ask a parent or guardian or your family doctor.
Most of you will have had the MMR vaccine when you were very small children.
You can also contact the HSE (opens in a new window)on this link to request your vaccination records.
MMR for overseas students:
If you do not have your vaccination records, the following links may be useful:
How do I get the MMR vaccine if I need it?
Please phone the UCD Student Health Service (01 716 3134) to arrange an appointment.
Make sure to let us know you are booking an appointment for the MMR vaccine.
It would be very helpful if you had a valid PPS number for your appointment is Student Health Service
(opens in a new window)Please if you do not have a valid PPS number, apply for one here.
Where can I get more information?
More information about measles and the MMR vaccine is available on the HSE website:
(opens in a new window)https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/measles/
(opens in a new window)https://www.hse.ie/eng/health/immunisation/pubinfo/pcischedule/vpds/mmr/
It would be very helpful if you had a valid PPS number for your appointment is Student Health Service
(opens in a new window)Please if you do not have a valid PPS number, apply for one here.
UCD Student Health Service team can also offer support and advice.
You can contact us by via email ((opens in a new window)student.health@ucd.ie) or +353 1 7163134 (9.30 am -12.30pm and 2.00pm - 4.00 pm) Monday – Friday only.
Outside of these hours, please contact your emergency out of hours services.