Measles jab reminder for Milton Keynes parents following earlier outbreak of the disease
Parents are being encouraged to ensure their children are up-to-date with the MMRV vaccine which protects against measles.
With many families set to travel for the summer holidays doctors are re-issuing advice about protecting children with the safe and effective MMRV vaccination.
The MMRV vaccine is now part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule in the UK, with the first dose typically given at 12 months and the second at 18 months. For those who missed these vaccinations, it is not too late to receive the vaccine from their family doctor.
The NHS has launched a catch-up campaign to encourage parents to book their children in for the missed MMR vaccine, especially in areas with low uptake and following two tragic deaths earlier this year.
It is crucial for all children to receive the MMRV vaccine to prevent serious and preventable diseases.
Dr Fiona Head, Executive Clinical Director at NHS Central East Integrated Care Board, said: “Measles is a highly infectious disease which, as we have sadly seen already this year, can cause death or serious, lifelong complications. The MMRV vaccine is safe and effective, and it protects against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (chickenpox) which are all dangerous, highly infectious illnesses.
“There are lots of reasons why your child may not be up to date on their MMRV or other immunisations. We know that some families couldn’t attend routine appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic, and have not yet caught up. We also know that parents sometimes change their minds, particularly after tragic cases, so even if you previously chose not to have your child vaccinated, the opportunity is still there.
“With so many families preparing to travel this summer, now is the time to catch up on any missing vaccinations, to give them a chance to work before your children mix with others from across the UK and beyond. As well as preventing a serious illness which would spoil your summer, you can make sure your child doesn’t fall behind in the new school year from an avoidable sickness absence.
“The NHS offers a series of routine immunisation programmes for children under the age of five, but there is a recommended schedule up to the teenage years. You can check all of your child’s vaccinations in their personal child health record (red book).
“If you’re pregnant and have never been vaccinated, you can also receive a vaccination which will protect you and your baby.”
Find out more both the infection and the vaccination on the NHS website.