Measles and vaccination: important health update following outbreaks in parts of the country

SENT ON BEHALF OF NHS ENGLAND

Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases and spreads rapidly among people who are unvaccinated. It is an unpleasant illness and can sometimes cause very serious complications.

NHS England is urging parents and carers to check their child’s vaccination status and ensure they are fully protected against measles by having the MMR or MMRV vaccine.

Despite the availability of a safe and highly effective vaccine, measles remains a significant global health risk. In 2023, an estimated 107,500 measles-related deaths occurred worldwide, mostly among unvaccinated or under‑vaccinated children under the age of five.

Measles spreads very easily, particularly among children who have not had the MMR or MMRV vaccine:

• Nine out of ten unvaccinated children can catch measles from an infected classmate
• One in five children who catch measles will require a hospital visit
• One in fifteen will experience serious complications, such as meningitis or sepsis
• Children who are not fully vaccinated and who come into contact with measles may be excluded from school or nursery for up to 21 days under public health guidance, meaning they could miss school if they are not protected

NHS England strongly advise you to:

• Check you and your child’s vaccination record
• Make sure your child has had two doses of MMR or MMRV
• Contact your GP surgery as soon as possible if you or your child is not fully vaccinated 

Did you know? Parents not wishing their child to have the porcine gelatine-containing MMR/MMRV vaccine can ask their GP practice for an alternative option.

Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from measles and to help prevent disruption to your home life, work and to your child’s education. If you need further information or support, your GP practice will be happy to assist.