Health and wellbeing
Walsall families urged to catch up on childhood vaccinations
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This half-term break, families in Walsall are being encouraged to check their children are up to date with their MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccinations, and to catch up on flu vaccinations if they have not already.
The latest measles report on the UKHSA Data Dashboard shows that since the start of January (up to 20 October), there have been 811 confirmed cases of measles in England, with 44 cases in the West Midlands.
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 MMR vaccine is offered in two doses - first at one year old and again at around 3 years and 4 months. Anyone of any age who has not received both doses can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment.
“ Vaccination is one of the most effective ways we can protect our children and our wider community from serious illness. Measles is not just a rash – it can lead to severe complications and needing treatment in hospital.
This half-term is a great opportunity for parents and carers to check their child’s vaccination record and book any missed appointments. The MMR vaccine is safe, free and offers the best protection. A version of the vaccine that does not contain pork gelatine is available - just ask your GP.
I also encourage families to take up the flu vaccine if eligible. It helps reduce the spread of flu and protects those who are most vulnerable, including young children, older adults and people with long-term health conditions. “
Flu vaccinations are available for eligible children and adults. Catching up during half-term helps protect not only individuals but also vulnerable members of the community, including babies and those with weakened immune systems.
For children in Reception to Year 11 who missed their flu vaccination at school, catch-up clinics are being hosted across the borough:
- 30 Oct 2025 from 09:00 – 13:00 at Anchor Meadow Health Centre, Aldridge
- 15 Nov 2025 from 09:00 – 13:00 at South and Central Family Hub in Birchills, Walsall
- 29 Nov 2025 from 09:00 – 13:00 at East Family Hub in Brownhills, Walsall
To find out more or book an appointment, call 01922 902 035 or email walsall@v-uk.co.uk. Parents and carers are encouraged to complete and return consent forms for their child(ren) to have the flu vaccination. The easiest way is to complete the online consent form. The form can be completed in different languages.
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.
The MMR vaccine can prevent measles. It also protects you from mumps and rubella. The vaccine is free on the NHS. Babies and young children are given 2 doses of the MMR vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination schedule. The first dose is given at 1 year old and again at 3 years 4 months old. For children born on or after July 1, 2024, the second MMR dose will be offered earlier at 18 months. Find out more about the MMR vaccine on the NHS website.
Flu vaccinations
To find out more about the children’s flu vaccine visit the NHS website. Details of the catch-up vaccination clinics are on Vaccination UK.
Eligible residents can receive a free flu vaccination at a mobile vaccination clinic. For more details, visit the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board website.
