Measles, Mumps and Rubella

Vaccination against Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine.

It protects against 3 serious illnesses:

These highly infectious conditions can easily spread between unvaccinated people.  

In particular, measles is one of the world’s most infectious diseases with estimates showing that one infected adult or child can pass the disease onto around 15 other unvaccinated people.

There is currently no medical treatment for measles, however, two doses of the MMR vaccine can give someone effective lifelong protection against becoming seriously unwell with the disease.

Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can also lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.

2 doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

you can book an appointment and catch up on the MMR vaccine at any age.

Information of Measles Outbreak in the UK - Updated 12th April 2024

As is being reported in the media, there has been an outbreak of measles in the UK.  The UK Health Security Agency is reporting that measles cases are at their highest for a decade in England with cases particularly high in London and the West Midlands.  Measles is a serious illness that spreads very quickly from person to person. It is likely to continue to spread across more parts of the UK unless more people take up the MMR vaccine.

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.

Scroll down for information what signs and symptoms to look out for and information on measles vaccination.  

What should I look for? How to identify the signs and symptoms

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.

Follow this link to visit the NHS website for information on how to check if you or your child has measles>>

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

  • you think you or your child may have measles
  • you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you've not had measles before or you've not had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine
  • you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you're pregnant – measles can be serious in pregnanc
  • you have a weakened immune system and think you have measles or have been in close contact with someone with measles.

IMPORTANT:  If you think you or your child may have measles, please do not attend the surgery.  Please contact us in the first instance via phone on 01202 822825 or 01725 517272 or email cranborne.reception@dorsetgp.nhs.uk.

 

The Practice will apply infection prevention and control measures in the management of face to face appointments required to treat or vaccinate patients against the measles.  When visiting our surgeries, please follow any instructions you are given to minimise the risk of spread of infection to patients and staff.

The NHS logo and the words signs and symptoms of measles

How to Protect Yourself Against Measles

Children who get measles can be very poorly, and some will suffer life-changing complications. The MMR vaccine is the best way for parents to protect their children from measles.

MMR is part of the NHS Routine Childhood Immunisation Programme – with one dose offered at one year and another second dose at 3 years 4 months. Parents whose infants missed out, or anyone of any age who has not yet had a vaccine, are urged to come forward. 

Contact us if you think you or your child may have missed either of these two doses.  Please phone us on 01202 822825 or 01725 517272 or email cranborne.reception@dorsetgp.nhs.uk