The latest UKHSA health protection data shows there has been a rise in measles cases in the UK. The school immunisation team at North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust is urging parents in Cumbria to check if their child is up to date with their MMR vaccine.

Dr Raj Verma, Associate Medical Director for Children and Families at NCIC explained:

“Vaccines are our best line of defence against diseases like measles, mumps and rubella and help stop outbreaks occurring in the community. However, in recent years the number of children vaccinated against these diseases has fallen.

“We are calling on all parents and guardians to make sure your children are up to date with their 2 MMR doses.

“Parents of children who will be starting school in September 2023 and are not up to date with their MMR immunisations will receive a postcard reminder from the NHS England North West Public Health Commissioning Team encouraging them to get vaccinated.

“If you think your child has been missed, it’s never too late to catch up – you can get the MMR vaccines on the NHS at any age.”

Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly infectious illnesses that can easily spread between unvaccinated people. The complications from these diseases can be life changing. It’s more important than ever to keep your child safe by getting them vaccinated as cases of measles have risen across the globe in recent years.

Dr Verma added; “The MMR vaccine is one of the most studied vaccines and millions of doses are given every year. This means the MMR vaccine is safe to be given to your child.

“Two doses of MMR vaccine should provide long lasting protection. The first dose is given after your child’s first birthday. The second dose is given at 3 years 4 months old, or soon after, to protect them before they start school.

“Measles, mumps and rubella can be very serious and, if you haven’t already, we encourage you to book a vaccination appointment for your child now to help protect them. It’s safe, quick and free as part of the NHS routine immunisation schedule.”

Vaccination is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children against ill health. They prevent up to 3 million deaths worldwide every year. You can find out more information on the NHS website or the UK government website

If your child does not already have an appointment booked, contact the GP practice that your child is registered with to book their appointment. Secondary school aged children can also contact the School Aged Immunisation team to arrange an appointment.

If you are not sure if your child has had all their routine vaccinations, check their personal health record (Red Book) or contact their GP practice.

If you think your child has already had their MMR vaccine, please contact their GP practice and our School Aged Immunisation Helpdesk to ensure their records are accurate. It may be possible for your child to have other routine vaccinations they are due to have at the same appointment.

You can see what vaccines your child should have at: www.nhs.uk (search for ‘NHS vaccinations and when to have them’).

Contact our School Aged Immunisation team: