Public Health England (PHE) in the West Midlands is urging people to take precautions to Stay Well This Summer and enjoy the festival season just before one of the region’s biggest events – V Festival during the weekend of Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August.
Among the most important advice from PHE Health Protection specialists is for young people to make sure they are up to date with immunisations including MMR and MenACWY, and that they practice safe sex.
Dr Musarrat Afza, PHE West Midlands Health Protection consultant, said: “There are a number of practical things people can do to make sure they enjoy the festival season, but something people might not consider is being up to date with their MMR jabs. Festivals often attract family groups and because of this, last year we saw a number of measles outbreaks linked to outdoor events. Measles is extremely infectious and can be more severe in teenagers and adults, leading to hospitalisation, so it’s really important children and young people have had both of their MMR jabs.
“We also want to remind school leavers heading off to college and university after the summer to protect themselves against potentially life threatening meningitis and septicaemia, by getting the MenACWY vaccination before they start their courses. Young people should also make sure they practice safe sex by using condoms.”
How to Stay Well This Summer:
- children and young people should make sure they have had 2 MMR jabs
- if you think you may need them, make sure you take condoms
- make sure you have a few first aid items such as plasters, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream, insect repellent, antihistamine cream for bites and stings, and headache tablets
- keep hydrated by drinking lots of water and don’t drink too much alcohol
- use sunscreen with minimum SPF15 and protection against UVA and UVB
- wear sunglasses – preferably wraparound or with wide arms, to protect eyes from UV
- cover up with appropriate clothing and wear a hat
