MMR Vaccine

Measles is not just a childhood illness, it’s a serious disease that can lead to severe complications, and in rare cases, can be fatal.

The best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine, which also protects against mumps and rubella. The vaccine is safe, effective, and provided free of charge on the NHS.

To be fully protected, children need two doses of the MMR vaccine:
• First dose at 12 months
• Second dose at 3 years and 4 months*

To stop the spread of measles in our region, at least 95% of children need to be fully vaccinated. Unfortunately, vaccination rates across the North East and North Cumbria are currently below this target, putting more children at risk of catching and spreading measles.

By vaccinating your child, you're not only protecting them, you're also helping to protect others in your community, especially those who can't be vaccinated or who have weakened immune systems due to illness or medical treatment.

If you're not sure whether your child has had both doses of the MMR vaccine:
• Check their Red Book (Personal Child Health Record)
• Or contact your GP surgery for advice
It’s never too late to catch up – even if your child has missed a dose, the vaccine can still be given.
Please don’t wait. MMR saves lives. Let’s protect our children – and each other. Be wise, immunise.

*From 1 January 2026, the MMR vaccination programme is changing:
• For children born on or after 1 July 2024, the second MMR dose will now be given at 18 months of age.
• Children born on or before 30 June 2024 (aged between 18 months - 3 years and 4 months) will stay on the current schedule.

For more information about measles vist: nhs.uk/conditions/measles

Published on 4 September 2025