The Football Association is monitoring a measles outbreak in the United States with just two weeks until the World Cup begins. The Three Lions are set to start their campaign against Croatia next month, and concerns have been raised about the potential spread of the highly contagious virus among players and staff.
According to reports, the outbreak has been flagged to all 48 nations participating in the tournament. England have been placed on 'alert' after receiving advice from FIFA, although suggestions that organisers are mandating vaccinations for all players and staff are not thought to be accurate.
Professor Mark Jit, Chair of Global and Environmental Health at New York University, warned of the risks. 'Measles isn't a mild illness – it can cause serious complications and can occasionally be fatal,' he said. 'An event that brings large numbers of people together in crowded settings is a concern.' He added that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide very good protection and that the risk of a team-wide outbreak is extremely low if the squad is fully vaccinated.
The measles alert follows the Democratic Republic of Congo's decision to move their pre-tournament training camp due to an Ebola outbreak in their home country. FIFA confirmed it is monitoring that situation closely and is in communication with the DRC Football Association.
