V Festival 2017: Health advice issued to revellers
Health chiefs have issued advice for revellers on how to stay safe as V Festival approaches.
Bosses from Public Health England in the West Midlands (PHEWM) have urged people to take precautions and enjoy the festival season ahead of the festival next weekend.
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, PHEWM's 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.”
Health advice from Public Health England and the NHS can be found on Twitter by following #StayWellThisSummer
