Protecting your child against measles

Re: Protecting your child against measles

You may be aware that there has been an increase in the number of measles cases in England with some local outbreaks. 

Measles can cause very serious illness

Measles usually causes a runny nose, red eyes, cough, high temperature and rash. It can also cause complications including ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia and convulsions. It is more likely to be serious in pregnant women, people whose immunity is not working properly and babies under a year of age. Very serious complications, such as inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) are rare, but can be fatal. 

Measles spreads very easily

Measles is one of the most infectious diseases known. You can catch measles if you spend 15 minutes with someone who has the disease. The measles virus is spread through the air and in tiny droplets that come out of the nose and mouth of an infected person.

MMR vaccine provides safe and effective protection against measles, mumps and rubella

MMR vaccine has been shown across the world to be a safe and effective way of preventing measles. It can protect your child and others against measles infection and its serious consequences.

What you can do now

In light of the continuing measles activity across the country, we strongly recommend that you arrange for your child to commence or complete the MMR vaccination programme now. Two doses of MMR vaccine offer the best way to protect your child against measles, mumps and rubella.

Over the coming weeks we will be writing out to invite those who have not commenced or completed the MMR vaccination programme to do so now.   We do hope you will take this opportunity to ensure full protection.

There is more information on measles on the NHS Choices website.