Health and wellbeing
Catch up on the MMR vaccine this summer break
Published on
Walsall families are being urged to check that they and their children are up to date with their MMR vaccinations (measles, mumps and rubella) during the summer holidays, ahead of the new school term in September.
Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows continued high levels of measles cases, amid fears of a further surge once the new school term begins. Since January 2025, measles activity has increased, including in the West Midlands.
There has also been a global increase in measles cases, including Europe, over the last year. UKHSA is concerned that holiday travel and international visits to see family this summer could lead to rising measles cases in England when the new school year begins. It is estimated that nine out of ten unvaccinated people could catch measles from someone who is infected.
Measles is an infection that spreads very easily, particularly among those who are unvaccinated and can cause serious problems in some people. It can have an impact on a child’s life such as missing out on school due to time spent unwell, or even being in hospital. Measles can also lead to life-long complications, severe disability and in rare cases, death.
Having the MMR vaccine is the best way to prevent infection. The vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants when they turn one year old and the second dose to pre-school children when they are around 3 years and 4 months old.
Anyone of any age who has not had both doses can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment and it is never too late to catch-up. It is important to check you have had both doses if you are about to start college or university, travelling overseas, planning a pregnancy, a frontline health or social care worker, or if you work with young children or care for people as part of your job.
“ The summer break is an ideal time to check that you and your loved ones are up to date with all vaccinations, including the MMR vaccine.
The MMR vaccine is safe, effective and free on the NHS. Two doses offer the best protection. It provides strong protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. A version of the vaccine that does not contain pork gelatine is available - just ask your GP.
It’s never too late to catch up. If you’re unsure about your or your child’s vaccination status, contact your GP to check your records or book an appointment. “
Read more about measles in the UK Health Security Agency’s latest press release on GOV.UK.
Measles is an infection which usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. The first symptoms of measles include:
- a high temperature
- a runny or blocked nose
- sneezing
- a cough
- red, sore, watery eyes
If you suspect your child has symptoms of measles, call your GP surgery beforehand or call 111. Read more on the NHS website.
The MMR vaccine can prevent measles. It also protects you from mumps and rubella. The vaccine is free on the NHS. Find out more about the MMR vaccine on the NHS website.
