MMR vaccine reminder

Professor Qutub Syed

Parents planning trips to the continent this summer should make sure that their children are protected by two doses of MMR vaccine.

The advice is being issued following reports of an increase in measles in a number of European countries, notably France where there has been an ongoing outbreak this year with more than 4,000 cases reported.

Professor Dr. Qutub Syed, Director, HPA North West, said: “MMR immunisation isn’t something that parents would normally think about when planning an overseas holiday, but it is particularly important this year because there have been increases in measles in many parts of Europe. Any child who has not had two doses of MMR vaccine is likely to be vulnerable.

“Measles is highly infectious. Although the majority of patients recover without developing complications of the infection, measles can be a dangerous illness, leading to pneumonia and brain infections. On rare occasions measles can kill.”

Professor Syed’s advice to parents is: “If your children have not had two doses of the MMR vaccine you should speak to your GP practice and arrange for them to be fully protected.”

The first dose of MMR vaccine is generally given to children shortly after their first birthday and the second dose is normally given when the child is three years and four months old. This is to ensure that children are fully protected by the time the begin school.

However, it’s never too late for a child, teenager or young adult to be vaccinated. Any teenager or young adult who missed out on MMR immunisation as a child can still get the vaccine, even if not travelling abroad. Unprotected teenagers or young adults should contact their family doctors for advice in the first instance.

Immunity to measles, mumps and rubella starts to develop two weeks after having the MMR injection, so parents are advised to book their children in for vaccination with plenty of time to spare before any planned holidays.