HSE calls for passengers on Abu Dhabi flight into Dublin to come forward due to contact with measles case

Passengers who travelled on Etihad Airways flight EY45 from Abu Dhabi to Dublin, arriving on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at 6:30 am, are urged to contact HSE Public Health immediately. 

Specifically, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and infants under 12 months old who were on this flight are urged to contact their local HSE Department of Public Health or HSELive without delay. 

Swift action is needed because immediate treatment could prove beneficial in these cases, according to the call out.

All passengers on the affected flight are advised to remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of measles until Saturday, March 30th, 2024.

This marks 21 days from the time of potential exposure. 

Symptoms of measles may include: 

• Cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and coughing
• Sore, red eyes
• A temperature of 38 degrees Celsius or above
• Rash, typically starting on the head and neck and spreading to the rest of the body. 

Should any of these symptoms start to show, affected people are advised to stay home, isolate themselves in a separate room, and seek healthcare advice. 

Prior to visiting any healthcare facility, it is important to phone ahead and inform them of the symptoms.

Passengers with upcoming travel plans should refrain from travelling if they experience these symptoms and should instead seek medical advice quickly. 

The most effective way to safeguard against measles is through two doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccination. 

People are encouraged to schedule vaccination appointments with their GP for optimal protection. 

For additional information about measles, including symptoms, prevention, and resources, please visit: https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/measles/