Residents planning to go overseas were warned to safeguard against measles, a highly contagious virus resurgent in some areas.

The health ministry advised travellers to ensure they were up to date on the measles, mumps and rubella vaccines, with two doses said to be 97 per cent effective.

Full vaccination should come at least two weeks before travel.

Children’s first recommended dose is at 12 to 15 months, with the second at four to six years.

Adults born after 1957 who lack immunity should verify they have had two MMR doses at least four weeks apart.

Masking while abroad was recommended in crowds or confined spaces, along with hand hygiene and avoiding people who show any signs of illness.

Early measles symptoms include fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose and sore, red eyes.

A rash typically appears a few days later, starting on the face and spreading to the body, lasting four to seven days.

Members of the public were advised to postpone any trip and consult a healthcare provider if feeling unwell, and to isolate and seek immediate care if symptoms develop during or after travel, informing any healthcare provider of travel history.

They were urged to contact a physician in the event of contact with someone who has measles to see if vaccination is required.

The advice was not to visit a GP or the hospital without notifying first for advice if measles is suspected.

The Bermuda Hospitals Board published an online measles self-assessment guide this week to determine if medical advice or emergency care is required.

Patients with worsening symptoms or difficulty breathing should call the Emergency Department in advance on 239-2009 for instructions on safely accessing care.

For information on measles or the MMR vaccine, contact your doctor or the Hamilton Health Centre on 444-0720.

Details are online at the Bermuda Government and the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention websites.