Health and wellbeing
Walsall residents urged to check MMR status as measles cases rise in region
Published on
Walsall residents are being urged to check that they and their children are fully protected against measles, as cases continue to rise in the West Midlands and across the country.
Latest figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show that an additional 106 confirmed measles cases have been reported in England in the past two weeks alone. This brings the total number of cases recorded between 1 January and 8 June to 736, already approaching the 959 cases seen across the whole of 2025.
Walsall Council Public Health is warning that measles spreads very easily and can lead to serious illness, particularly among those who are not vaccinated.
Anyone who has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine is urged to come forward. Even individuals who are unsure of their vaccination history, or who do not have access to their medical records, can safely receive the vaccine. It is never too late to catch up.
Measles is not limited to children. 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 adults and children. For younger children, the NHS now uses the MMRV vaccine, which also protects against chickenpox. Older children and adults who need to catch up will continue to be offered the MMR vaccine.
The MMR vaccine has a strong safety record and provides the most effective protection against measles, mumps and rubella, with two doses offering the highest level of protection. For people who do not touch any pork products, there is a version of the MMR vaccine, Priorix, and MMRV vaccine, Priorix-Tetra, which have no pork ingredients. Residents should contact their GP for more information.
With the summer holidays approaching, residents are encouraged to check their vaccination record now, particularly if they are planning to travel or attend events and gatherings. Ensuring vaccinations are up to date can help prevent illness and avoid disruption to summer plans.
“ With measles cases increasing, it is important to take a moment to check you and your family are protected.
We recognise that not everyone will be sure of their vaccination history, particularly adults, but it is never too late to catch up. Even if you cannot remember what vaccines you have had or do not have access to your records, you can still safely come forward for the MMR vaccine.
As we approach the summer holidays, when more people are travelling and mixing, making sure you are up to date with your vaccinations is a simple step that can help protect both you and the wider community “
Parents and carers are advised to check their child’s Red Book or the NHS App, contact their GP practice if they are unsure, and arrange an appointment if any doses have been missed.
Adults who are uncertain about their vaccination history are also encouraged to contact their GP practice to ensure they are protected.
Children who have missed any of their routine vaccinations can attend a local catch-up clinic hosted by Vaccination UK.
- Saturday 27 June 2026, 9:00am–1:00pm - Vaccination UK, Hallens Drive, Wednesbury
- Saturday 4 July 2026, 9:30am–1:00pm - South and Central Family Hub, Birchills Street, Walsall
At the catch-up clinics, children and young people can receive MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), MenACWY (Meningitis A, C, W, Y), DTaP/IPV (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis / Polio) and HPV (Human Papillomavirus, for eligible age groups). The clinics will be staffed by trained professionals. Appointments are required and children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. To book, email walsall@vaccinationuk.co.uk or call 01922 902 035.
For the latest measles data, visit the GOV.UK website.
About measles
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.
About the MMR and MMRV vaccine
- The MMR vaccine helps protect against measles, mumps and rubella. It's recommended for anyone who missed the vaccine when they were younger. To find out more visit the NHS website.
- The MMRV vaccine helps protect children against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (varicella). It's usually given to children when they are 12 months and 18 months old. Some older children are also offered it. MMRV has replaced the MMR vaccine in the NHS vaccination schedule. Find out more on the NHS website.
