So you’re off to the Eisteddfod and possibly the last thing on your mind is whether you and your family’s immunisations are up to date. But you are going to be in much closer proximity than usual to thousands of people. The three quite serious infections which we know have been transmitted at big events such as the Eisteddfod are meningitis, measles and Covid, and vaccines exist for all three.
If you or family members have not had at least two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine you are not protected against measles, so seek advice from your GP before setting off for the festival. We have had recent outbreaks in Wales. Please also check with your GP as to whether your children have had the required meningitis vaccines. Again if you have not had the immunisation please seek advice from your GP.
If you are not immunised and unlucky enough to catch an infectious disease while at the Eisteddfod, the signs and symptoms will probably not appear until after the festival has ended. Again it is important to seek medical advice if you feel unwell and particularly if you develop any kind of a rash.