There has recently been an increase in measles cases in London. Measles spreads very easily and can cause serious illness, especially in babies and young children. Vaccination is the best protection.
Why MMR vaccination is so important
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
- 1 dose is about 95% effective against measles.
- 2 doses give excellent, long-lasting protection.
- High uptake (95%+) helps prevent outbreaks in the community.
Babies under 1 year cannot routinely receive MMR, so they rely on older children and adults being fully vaccinated to protect them.
Current MMR Schedule
Children born on or after 1 July 2024
- 1st dose: at 12 months
- 2nd dose (MMRV): at 18 months
Children born before 1 July 2024
- 1st dose: at 12 months
- 2nd dose (MMR/MMRV): at 3 years 4 months (pre-school booster)
Both schedules provide excellent protection.
If a dose is given before 1 year of age during an outbreak, it does not replace the two routine doses.
Catch-Up Vaccination – We Can Help
If your child, teenager or young adult has missed one or both doses, it is never too late to catch up.
We are very happy to discuss your concerns and offer the MMR vaccine at the practice with a Nurse or GP.
This is especially important for:
- Teenagers
- University students
- Young adults
- Anyone aged 25 and under who may not have received two doses
Please check your child’s Red Book or contact the practice and we will advise you.
Protecting babies under 1 year
- Ensure siblings and close family members have had 2 doses of MMR.
- During outbreaks, public health teams may advise early vaccination in specific settings following a risk assessment.
Who provides MMR vaccinations?
Routine MMR vaccination and call/recall remains the responsibility of your GP practice.
Community catch-up clinics are also delivered by Vaccination UK
https://www.schoolvaccination.uk/catch-up-clinics
Reassurance for Parents
One dose already provides strong protection. The second dose ensures those who did not fully respond to the first dose are protected.
If you are unsure about your child’s vaccination status, please contact the practice — we are very happy to help.