Measles Mumps and Rubella Posted or Updated on 20 May 2024

Measles cases are rising in England and across Europe

Measles can make children seriously unwell with one in five needing a hospital visit

One on 15 children develop serious complications from a measles infection, which can include Meningitis and blindness

There is no medical treatment for measles; vaccination is the best protection against becoming seriously unwell

The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and has been used since the early 1980s.

Over 20 million cases of measles have been prevented since the start of measles vaccination in the UK. Over 4,500 lives have been saved as a result (81 lives per year) *source is UKHSA blog.

MMR vaccination is free on the NHS with the first dose being offered when a child is one and the second at 3 years and 4 months old. This provides long lasting protection against measles, mumps and rubella

Vaccination is the best way to protect a child from becoming seriously unwell from preventable diseases such as measles

The evidence is clear; there is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism

If your child has missed their first or second dose of MMR vaccine contact your GP practice to book an appointment.

If you are unsure if your child is due a vaccination or has missed a vaccination, check their red book or contact your GP practice.

For adults, it is never too late to catch up on their MMR vaccinations, contact your GP practice to book an appointment

For more information visit the NHS website

Easy read leaflet on Measles (PDF, 189KB)