Measles and the MMR vaccine

You may have read about the UK Health Security Agency’s assessment that a measles outbreak of between 40,000 and 160,000 cases could occur in London, primarily due to low vaccination rates.

In the West Midlands, only 85% of children have had BOTH of their MMR vaccines by the age of 5 years. Over the last few weeks, we have started to see some cases of measles in the region – all are in young unvaccinated children. This is significantly below the 95% MMR uptake rate needed to support herd immunity from measles.

It can take up to 21 days for symptoms of measles to show (incubation period), so an unvaccinated child could have measles without realising and spread the infection – so anyone who has not had at least one MMR and is in contact with a case of measles will need to be excluded from nursery for 21 days after contact with the infected person. Contacts of measles cases should also not be mixing outside their household for that same time period.

Parents should check their children are fully vaccinated with 2 MMR doses, which gives 99% life-long protection, by checking their red book or with their GP practice, which younger and older adults can also do. Anyone not up-to-date should make an appointment as soon as possible.

It’s vital all children and adults catch up on any missed vaccinations and this is especially important if travelling overseas this summer.

Dr Vanessa Saliba, UKHSA Consultant Epidemiologist said:

“Measles can be a serious infection that can lead to complications especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems. Due to longstanding sub-optimal vaccine uptake there is now a very real risk of seeing big outbreaks in London.

Measles spreads very easily but is preventable. To help protect ourselves, our families and those around us it is vital we all ensure we are vaccinated with 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, free on the NHS whatever your age. Parents can check their children’s red book to see if they are up to date or if you’re not sure anyone can call their GP practice. It’s important everyone is fully vaccinated before travelling overseas this summer.

Nobody wants to see their child or loved ones sick with measles, or put others who are more vulnerable, like babies, at risk. I urge those who have missed their MMR vaccines to catch-up now.”