Measles cases are increasing in London. We are asking all parents and carers in Camden to check that children are up to date with vaccinations.
Measles is a contagious disease which can lead to serious health complications, such as ear infections and pneumonia. In some rare cases it can lead to long term disability or death.
Vaccinations your child needs
For the best protection, all children need 2 doses of the vaccine:
- age 1 year, first dose
- age 3 years and 4 months, second dose
The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, and the only way of protecting your child against the most severe forms of measles.
Check your child is up to date
To check if your child is up to date with vaccinations, look in their Red Book.
If you are not sure, contact your GP.
Book a vaccine for your child
If your child needs one or both MMR vaccines, make an appointment with your GP. It is free on the NHS and never too late to catch up.
If your child is in primary or secondary school in Camden, you can also book a free vaccine appointment with the School Aged Immunisation Service. Call 020 3317 5076 from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Take your child’s Red Book to their vaccination appointment. You can ask the nurse any questions you have about the MMR or other vaccines.
MMR does not cause autism
Many studies have shown there is no link between MMR and autism. Your nurse will be happy to answer any questions you have about this in your appointment.
Ask your GP or nurse for an MMR vaccine without pork ingredients if you need it
There are two brands of MMR vaccine in the UK – MMR VaxPro and Priorix. MMR VaxPro contains pork gelatine and Priorix does not.
If your child needs an MMR vaccine without pork ingredients, tell your doctor or nurse and they will be given a Priorix vaccine.
Read more about the ingredients in MMR and how the vaccine works at the Vaccine Knowledge Project website.
Vaccines for adults
If you are an adult and not fully vaccinated, measles can make you seriously unwell. Especially if you are pregnant or have a weakened immune system.
Everyone should have 2 doses of the MMR vaccine for the best protection against measles.
Adults born between 1998 and 2004 are less likely to be vaccinated against measles because of a study that linked the MMR vaccine with autism. This study has been disproven. There is no link between MMR and autism.
If you’re not sure if you’ve had one or both doses, contact your GP. You will be asked to book a free vaccine appointment if you need one.