Health and wellbeing
Walsall families encouraged to check MMR vaccinations this half term
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Families across Walsall are being encouraged to use the half-term school break to check their children’s measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccinations are up to date.
The call comes as the latest measles data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that from 1 January to 9 February 2026, there have been 96 cases of measles in England, with 79 cases in the 4 weeks since 12 January. Meanwhile, the West Midlands region has had 26% of all cases in England so far this year, with 25 lab confirmed cases – compared to 76 cases in the region for the whole of 2025.
Walsall Council Public Health, alongside UKHSA and NHS colleagues, are reminding families that measles is a highly infectious illness that can spread quickly if people have not had two doses of the MMR or MMRV vaccine, with increased risk if families are going on holiday to countries with high rates of measles.
Measles can lead to complications such as ear and chest infections, fits, diarrhoea and dehydration in younger children. On rare occasions it can lead to serious problems including meningitis, blindness and hearing loss. In a small number of cases measles can even be fatal.
“ We know families are busy and school holidays can be one of the few moments where there’s time to pause and check in on children’s health. With measles cases continuing to rise nationally and here in the West Midlands, it’s more important than ever to make sure children are fully protected with two doses of the MMR or MMRV vaccine. These vaccines keep children safe from serious illness, and catching up is straightforward if a dose has been missed.
By taking a few minutes this half term to review your child’s vaccination record and book any catch-up appointments, you are helping protect not only your own family, but also friends, classmates and the wider community. Vaccination remains one of our strongest tools in preventing outbreaks and keeping children healthy. “
“ With measles cases rising, we are urging families in the West Midlands to make sure their children are protected against serious illness, by getting vaccinated if they are not already up to date with their routine vaccinations.
The MMR vaccine has been safely used for many years and has now been extended, from January 2026, to include protection from chickenpox (varicella), with the introduction of the MMRV vaccine. While it’s generally considered to be a fairly harmless disease, children who have recently had chickenpox may develop serious forms of Group A Strep infection, which can lead to an invasive infection including high fever, cellulitis, and joint pain and swelling. “
Vaccination support drop-in sessions will be taking place at Walsall’s Family Hubs in March, where families can ask questions and seek advice on childhood routine vaccines. Please note that no vaccinations will be given during these sessions.
- Monday 2 March, 3:30pm to 5pm at North Family Hub, Blakenall Lane, Walsall, WS3 1HJ.
- Tuesday 10 March, 3:30pm to 5pm at East Family Hub, Silver Court, Brownhills, WS8 6HA.
- Monday 16 March, 3:30pm to 5pm at South Family Hub, Birchills Street, Walsall, WS2 8NF.
- Tuesday 17 March, 3:30pm to 5pm at West Family Hub, Ilmington House, Crescent Road, Darlaston, WS10 8EA.
You can also speak to your GP surgery if you have any questions or book an appointment for the MMR or MMRV.
For people who do not touch any pork products, there is a version of the MMR vaccine, Priorix, and MMRV vaccine, Priorix-Tetra, which has no pork ingredients. You can request these vaccines from your GP.
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.
