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 a vaccine, make an appointment with your GP. It is free on the NHS and never too late to catch up.
If they are in primary school, you can also use 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.
Vaccines for adults
If you are an adult and not fully vaccinated, measles can make you seriously unwell. Everyone should have 2 doses of the MMR vaccine for the best protection against measles.
If you’re not sure if you’ve had one or both doses, contact your GP. You will be asked to book a vaccine appointment if you need one.
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.