Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a significant drop in the number of parents and carers getting their children vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), and other childhood vaccines.
Now, more than one in ten eligible children under the age of five in England haven’t had their MMR vaccine, or are only partially vaccinated.
Measles is very contagious and can be quite unpleasant. For some, it can even lead to serious complications.
The concern is that even a small decline in uptake of the MMR vaccination could lead to a rise in cases. And as international travel resumes, there’s more chance for measles to be brought in from other countries where it’s more common.
Vaccinations remain the best defence against infection. Children require two doses of the MMR vaccination so it’s very important that children attend their routine vaccination appointments.
If any have been missed for any reasons, GP surgeries can be contacted to book a vaccine appointment. It’s never too late to catch up. You can read more about the MMR vaccine and why it’s important online. And you can see the NHS vaccination schedule.