Protect Your Child Against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

Understanding the Importance of Vaccination

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is essential for protecting both children and adults from serious illnesses. Vaccination helps prevent the spread of these diseases, which can lead to severe complications if not managed properly.

The MMR vaccine is administered in two doses:

• The first dose is typically given at one year of age.
• The second dose is given at around three years and four months.

If you or your child missed one or both doses, it’s not too late. Contact your GP to schedule a free MMR vaccine appointment.

What Are Measles, Mumps, and Rubella?

Measles:
A highly contagious disease that begins with cold-like symptoms and develops into a rash starting on the face before spreading across the body. It can lead to serious complications like pneumonia and brain infections. One in five children with measles may require hospitalization.

Mumps:
Characterized by painful swelling under the ears, mumps can cause viral meningitis or inflammation of reproductive organs in rare cases. Symptoms often include a swollen, “hamster-like” face.

Rubella:
Also known as German measles, rubella causes a spotty rash that starts behind the ears and spreads across the body. While rare due to widespread vaccination, rubella poses a significant risk to unborn babies if contracted during early pregnancy.

What to Do if Symptoms Appear

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if you or your child:

• May have been exposed to measles, especially if they are under 1 year old, pregnant, or have a weakened immune system.
• Has a high fever that does not subside with medication.
• Experiences difficulty breathing or reduced fluid intake.
• Exhibits severe symptoms or appears to be deteriorating rapidly.

If your child has measles, keep them away from school for at least four days after the rash appears to reduce the risk of spreading the infection. Regular hand washing with soap and water is also crucial.

Why Vaccination Matters

Without vaccination, nine out of ten children exposed to measles in a shared environment (like a classroom) can contract the virus. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect against these diseases. If you are unsure about your child’s vaccination status, check their health records or consult your GP.

As Dr. Simon Drysdale, a children’s hospital doctor in Oxford, explains:
“If someone has measles, mumps, or rubella, there is no cure. We can treat the symptoms and complications, but prevention through vaccination is the key.”

For more information, visit www.nhs.uk/mmr.