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Measles is a highly contagious spot disease caused by the measles virus. It is usually a harmless childhood illness, but can sometimes be serious. Measles weakens the immune system, making it easier for people to contract other infectious diseases. Babies, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems have a higher risk of a severe course of measles. If your child is fully vaccinated against measles, they are well protected against the virus.
This is what you can do yourself
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Recognising measles
Measles begin suddenly with symptoms such as fever, red eyes and a cold. After 3 to 7 days, spots appear on the skin, first on the face and then on the arms and legs. For more information, see this page from RIVM
If you think your child has measles
- Does your child have symptoms that look like measles and are you worried? If so, contact your GP by telephone
- Also, call your GP if your child has not been vaccinated against measles and has been around someone with measles
- Do not take your child to the GP and do not let them go to school or daycare. The virus spreads easily in a crowded place. For more information, see this page from RIVM
Pregnant and never had measles or a vaccination against measles?
- Contact your GP by phone if you have symptoms that resemble measles
- Also call your GP if you have been around someone who has measles
Protection through vaccination
A vaccination against measles provides protection against this disease. The BMR vaccination protects against mumps, measles and rubella and consists of 2 shots. Your child gets the first shot at 14 months old and the second shot when he or she is 3 years old. You will automatically receive an invitation.
For more information, see the page for vaccinations for children and youngsters
Missed one or more shots?
Is your child 4 years old or older and has your child missed a vaccination? If so, visit a walk-in clinic in your area (Dutch).
Is your child younger than 4 years old and has he or she missed a vaccination? If so, contact one of our Parent and Child Teams (OKTs).
- Call (+31) 020 555 5961 for the Amsterdam region. Monday through Friday 9.00 AM - 12.00 AM and 1.00 PM - 4 PM
- Call (+31) 020 555 5964 for the Amstelland region. Monday through Friday 9.00 AM - 12.00 AM and 1.00 PM - 4 PM
- Or chat with a youth nurse via our website (Dutch)
This is what GGD Amsterdam does
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The GGD starts a source and contact investigation when measles is reported. We check where the measles came from and with whom the patient had contact. We also check whether these people have been vaccinated.
Contact
For advice on measles, call the Department of Infectious Diseases, GGD Amsterdam: +31 (0)20 555 5337
Available Monday to Friday from 09.00 AM to 1.00 PM and 1.30 PM to 4.30 PM.