Measles and the MMR vaccine

Measles is an extremely contagious disease that could have major health consequences for those who become infected and are unvaccinated.

While measles can be a mild illness, it has the potential to cause severe complications such as sight loss, hearing loss, pneumonia and meningitis. In extreme circumstances, measles can be fatal.

Recent outbreaks of measles have occurred across the UK, including in Wales, and more outbreaks could occur in future. However, we have the ability to slow the spread, and protect our children and ourselves, with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

The simple, two-dose MMR vaccine is extremely effective and safe, and there are gelatine-free options available for certain faith groups. They are routinely given at GP practices for children at 12 months old and 3 years and 4 months - but it is never too late to catch up.

Immunisation teams also visit primary and secondary schools across Cardiff and Vale where uptake is lower. If parents are offered the MMR vaccine for their child at school, it is vital they complete the consent form provided to them by their school.

Here are a few important points to consider about measles and the MMR vaccine:

Measles is one of the most infectious diseases in the world. If one person has it, 9 out of 10 of their unvaccinated close contacts could become infected

Measles can be much more serious than just a rash. It has the potential to cause severe complications such as sight loss, hearing loss, pneumonia and meningitis which can cause lifelong disability. In extreme circumstances, measles can be fatal

Unvaccinated young children and those who are pregnant are at greatest risk of severe complications from measles

If there is a confirmed case of measles in a school, any close contact who has not been vaccinated will have to isolate for 21 days. This could prove very disruptive to a child’s education, and is likely to impact on parents in terms of work and childcare arrangements

Anyone who is found to be a close contact will not be eligible for the MMR vaccine until the isolation period come to an end

Any child who is showing the most common symptoms – such as a rash, fever, cough, runny nose and red eyes – should be kept at home and away from any vulnerable settings such as hospitals. Book a GP appointment or call NHS 111 immediately.

Here are some useful MMR fact sheets for parents:

If you are unsure if your child has had the MMR vaccine, check your child’s personal health record (red book) in the first instance. If you remain unsure, other options include:

Contacting the Local Child Health Team on 02921 836926 or 02921 836929
Contacting your GP practice, avoiding peak times such as early mornings where possible

For further information about the MMR vaccine, visit the Public Health Wales website.