Catherine Conlon: Add the measles vaccine to your summer holiday checklist

Passport, tickets, MMR vaccine... Amid a global upsurge of measles, families are advised to avoid the miserable and possibly life-changing illness by ensuring they've all had the vaccine

We all take sensible precautions on holidays such as applying sun screen. But we now also need to heed the growing threat of measles. It can affect people of all ages but young children are most at risk of severe complications. Picture: iStock

Summer has finally arrived. Families and friends up and down the country are relishing the prospect of some sunshine as they enjoy a well-earned break in Europe or further afield.

But travelling brings the risk of unexpected bugs finding their way into your itinerary and turning a dream holiday into an expensive nightmare. With measles surging across Europe, it is more important than ever to ensure that you and your travelling companions are vaccinated.