Health and wellbeing
Walsall families urged to check children's vaccinations during the summer holidays
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Parents and carers are being urged to use the summer break to check their children's vaccination records and catch up on any missed immunisations, including measles, mumps and rubella (MMR).
Recent data from the UK Health Security Agency shows that between 1 January and 6 July this year there were over 800 cases of measles. 17% of these cases were in the West Midlands. Sadly, three people (including two children and one adult) have died so far this year in England.
Measles is an infection that spreads very easily. It can affect people of any age and in some cases lead to being in hospital or serious complications, including ear and chest infections, fits, diarrhoea and dehydration in younger children. On rare occasions, it can result in meningitis, blindness and hearing loss. In a small number of cases, it can be fatal. The virus can spread rapidly wherever people mix, especially among those who are unvaccinated.
The MMR vaccination is important for both children and adults. As part of the routine childhood immunisation programme, younger children are now offered the MMRV vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. Children and adults who have missed one or both doses can continue to catch up through the NHS vaccination programme, with older children and adults offered the MMR vaccine.
The MMR vaccine has an excellent safety record and is the most effective way to protect against measles, mumps and rubella. Two doses are needed for full protection.
For residents who do not use pork products, alternative vaccines are available. Priorix (MMR) and Priorix-Tetra (MMRV) do not contain pork-derived ingredients. Residents can contact their GP practice for more information.
Parents and carers are also encouraged to check that their children are up to date with all routine childhood vaccinations. The summer holidays provide an opportunity to review vaccination records and catch up on any missed appointments before children return to school or nursery in September.
“ Measles is an infectious disease and can lead to serious illness, particularly in young children and vulnerable individuals. Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect your child and help prevent outbreaks in our communities.
Please do use the summer holidays to check not only your child's MMR vaccinations, but all of their routine immunisations. If you've missed an appointment or aren't sure whether your child is fully protected, please contact your GP practice. Catching up now will help ensure children are protected when they return to school in September. “
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.
For the full NHS vaccination schedule, visit the NHS website.
