Health leaders across the Black Country are urging people to make sure they are up to date with their measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) jab.
Measles is a highly infectious disease which can lead to serious complications if it is not treated. In the most severe cases, it can develop into more threatening conditions such as pneumonia, especially in those with a weakened immune system.
Symptoms of measles include:
- a high fever
- rash
- cough
- runny nose
- watery eyes.
All children are invited for their first MMR vaccine on the NHS when they turn one. The second dose is given when they reach three years and four months of age. Having two doses of the vaccine provides the best protection against MMR.
Adults and older children can also be vaccinated at any age if they have not been fully vaccinated before and are being encouraged to come forward if they haven’t had two doses.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Adults and Wellbeing, said: "Measles can be a very serious illness and lead to severe complications, especially in people who are particularly vulnerable or have other health conditions.
"The good news is that the misery caused by measles is entirely preventable, so please ensure that you and your family are up to date with the free MMR vaccine."
Dr Fiona Rose, local GP and Clinical Director for Quality and Safety for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), said: “The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine, which protects against three serious illnesses - measles, mumps, and rubella.
“These are viral infections that can spread quickly to unvaccinated people, which is why it’s absolutely vital that everyone, in particular children, have the maximum protection.
“If you, or your child, has missed a vaccination, please contact your GP practice to book an appointment as soon as you can. It’s never too late to catch-up – primary care is open and here for you.”
Parents who are unsure if their child is up to date with all their routine vaccinations should check their child’s Red Book (personal child health record), check the NHS app, or contact their GP practice.
For more information on the MMR vaccine, visit the NHS website here.
