The UK has lost its measles elimination status due to experiencing a large increase in measles cases in 2024. This means that measles has taken a hold in the UK again and is continuing to spread.
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness which can cause serious illness. Last summer there was a significant increase in measles in Merseyside with several children treated for effects and complications at Alder Hey and sadly one child died.
Falling vaccination rates has left the door open for measles to spread. Although the majority of families in Liverpool are getting vaccinated, 1 in 4 five-year-olds in Liverpool are not fully protected with the two doses of measles-containing vaccine that they need – well below the 95% target needed to prevent measles spreading.
Professor Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health for Liverpool, said that more must be done to ensure that parents have the information they need to make informed choices about vaccination.
“Vaccination is the best way to protect your child from diseases like measles. We need to ensure that everyone has the information they need to make the healthy choice to vaccinate their child.”
To build on the existing immunisation programme and protect children at an earlier age, the NHS has introduced the MMRV vaccine to be given at 12 and 18 months. This protects against measles, mumps, rubella and, for the first time, also protects against varicella (chickenpox) in a combined vaccine.
The vaccine, which also has a porcine gelatine-free alternative, is given in two doses:
- Children born on or after 1 January 2025 will receive two doses of MMRV at 12 months and 18 months.
- Those born between 1 July 2024 and 31 December 2024 will have already received one MMR dose at 12 months and will be offered MMRV at 18 months and again at 3 years 4 months.
- Children born between 1 September 2022 and 30 June 2024 will receive one MMRV dose at 3 years 4 months instead of their second MMR dose.
A catch-up programme will also run for eligible children. Children born on or before 31 December 2019 will not be offered MMRV but should ensure they have had two MMR doses. Parents will be contacted by their GP practice when their child is due for vaccination.
Professor Ashton added: “The MMRV vaccine is safe and effective. If you have not been contacted but believe your child is eligible or has missed any vaccinations, speak to your GP practice. It is never too late to get vaccinated.”
For more details, visit MMRV vaccination: a guide for parents and carers – GOV.UK
You can also get vaccinated without an appointment through our Living Well Bus service. Find upcoming dates on the Living Well Service website.
