Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccinations
Worcestershire County Council share the following important message with parents and carers An increasing number of measles cases are continuing to be seen across the country. While Worcestershire has one of the best rates for uptake, some children who haven’t had their MMR could be at risk of getting this serious illness.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are given to make sure we have the best protection from measles. The first dose is given at 12 months of age and the second dose is given at three years and four months, before starting school. For anybody who did not receive the full vaccination course, your own GP will be able to provide a catch up MMR vaccination.
The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine that protects against three serious illnesses: Measles, Mumps and Rubella.
Overall, Worcestershire has an excellent uptake of the MMR vaccine; for 5 year olds, the county shows as having an uptake of 96.4% (1 dose) and 91.3% (2 doses). The 1 dose figure is joint highest in the West Midlands region and the 2 dose uptake is the outright highest in the region.
Having the vaccine protects not only the child but also reduces the spread of the disease. This relies on as many people as possible being vaccinated and is why Public Health experts in the county are keen to continue to encourage all children to be vaccinated.
Measles is a very infectious viral illness that is spread by coughs and sneezes. It usually starts with cold-like symptoms which can include a high temperature, a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a cough, sore red eyes and a rash. It spreads very quickly to non-immune children and adults who are unvaccinated or have not previously been infected.
If anyone has symptoms of measles, please stay at home and phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice. Do not go to GP surgeries or A & E departments so the illness isn’t spread to others.
For more information on measles and the MMR vaccine please visit:
Measles – NHS click here for more information
