- We have seen a recent increase of measles in the North West (latest data is here) and we do expect cases will increase due to some communities having low MMR vaccination rates.
- Measles is very infectious which means it can spread quickly among communities, such as schools and nurseries, if people are not up to date with their MMR vaccine.
- One in five children will need a hospital visit if they become unwell with measles and around one in15 measles cases can have complications such as meningitis, sepsis and blindness.
- The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine vaccination is the best protection against becoming seriously unwell.
- The MMR vaccine is free on the NHS, with the first dose being offered when a child is one year and the second at 3 years and 4 months old. It is available from your local GP surgery – there may also be some pop up clinics in your area.
- The MMR vaccine is safe and has been used since the early 1980s.
- The evidence is clear; there is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism
- Two doses gives very effective and long lasting protection against measles, mumps and rubella.
- There are two types of MMR vaccine, and one does not contain pork gelatine. You can request a vaccine without pork gelatine from your GP practice when you book your appointment.
- If you are unsure if your child / children are up to date with their vaccines check their red book (Child’s health record).
- If your child / children have missed any of their MMR vaccines, contact their GP surgery to book an appointment.
- Measles does not just affect young children – anyone who has missed their MMR vaccination can catch measles and become ill.