News is spreading today of an increase in cases of measles across Europe, so we're being advised to vaccinate ourselves before traveling this Easter.

Britons traveling to mainland Europe this Easter, particularly those with children, are being urged to get vaccinations before traveling.

Countries including France, Germany, Denmark, The Netherlands and Turkey have all seen sharp increases in measles cases this year.

I'm planning on a quick visit to some friends in France later in the Easter break, so I'll be checking that I'm up to date with all my vaccinations.

The Health Protection Agency recommends that children are fully immunised with two doses of MMR, and adults who have only had one dose consider being vaccinated again to protect themselves from contracting the virus.

Measles is highly contagious and can be passed through coughs and sneezes. It not only causes visible red spots, but a range of other symptoms including fever, coughing and flu-like symptoms.

I'll definitely be getting checked out before I go. I don't mind bringing back a few souvenirs from my trip, but I definitely don't want to be bringing that back with me!

Photo: s.alt (Flickr)