Help kids’ health with MMR jab protection
NHS Lanarkshire is encouraging parents to take up the offer of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine for their children.
There are now five laboratory-confirmed cases of measles in Scotland since October 2023, all of which have been linked to travel.
Uptake of MMR has declined across the UK in recent years and there remains a risk of infection in those who are not vaccinated or not fully vaccinated for their age.
Measles can be a very serious condition, causing pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and can affect people of any age if they have not been vaccinated.
The MMR vaccine protects against measles with the first dose offered to children between 12-13 months, and the second dose offered at three years, four months.
If it’s missed at these times, it can be given at any age.
Having two doses of the MMR vaccine is the best way to be fully protected against measles.
Dr Henry Prempeh, consultant in public health medicine, said: “Measles cases have increased significantly across other parts of the UK and Europe, and we would encourage parents with young children to get their child vaccinated.
“This will offer the protection against measles which can lead to more serious health issues.
“Given the current links to travel, it is also important your children are up to date with all their vaccinations before leaving the country.”
Children will automatically be offered their first MMR vaccination within a month of their first birthday and their second dose at three years old or thereabouts.
Anyone can check their vaccination status by contacting their GP and if someone has not been vaccinated or only received one dose their GP can refer the individual to NHS Lanarkshire’s vaccination team.
Lanarkshire residents can also request their MMR vaccination by calling the vaccination helpline on 01698 687456, which is available Monday to Thursday between 9am and 5pm and on a Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.