This is the first confirmed case of measles in Ireland this year

The patient died in a hospital in the Dublin and Midlands health region, but the exact location has not been disclosed.

In a statement last night, Chief Medical Officer, Breda Smyth confirmed the death.

She also urged the public to ensure that they're vaccinated against the measles.

She stated: "There has been a confirmed death of an adult in Ireland linked to measles infection. We need to prevent as many cases, serious illnesses, and deaths as possible. Please get your MMR vaccine."

The public has been advised to know the symptoms of measles in case they contract the disease.

Those with the viral illness will experience cold/flu-like symptoms at first. They will then develop sore, red eyes that are sensitive to light. Other symptoms include grey spots in your mouth, a fever, and a loss of appetite.

Patients will also have a distinctive rash that appears around days two and four. The rash is red-brown in colour and will fade after a week.

The highly infectious viral illness tends to last between seven and 10 days.

The best way to prevent measles is to get the MMR vaccine. People who have contracted measles before will unlikely get the measles again.

Children are usually given the vaccination during primary school, but you can contact your GP about vaccinations if you're not fully protected.

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