4000 children not fully vaccinated for measles in Cumbria

Measles cases are rising and statistics show than more than 4000 children in Cumbria have not received the full Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine dosage.

Immunisation nurses are touring the county to making booking and getting your child vaccinated as easy as possible.

There has been an increase in measles cases in England and there are concerns that cases in Cumbria may occur if children are not fully vaccinated; two doses are required for full protection.

Measles is a very infectious viral illness that can cause: blindness, sepsis and meningitis. Potentially leading to serious complications and death.

The best way we know to be protected against this virus is vaccination.

North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Trust’s School-Aged Immunisation Hub are undertaking a vaccination campaign over the summer months, visiting various community groups and centres to deliver the vaccine.

The team lead nurse for west Cumbria, Judith Starkie said:

“Our school aged immunisations team have started a campaign to try and make sure as many people in Cumbria are up to date with their Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine. We are currently checking the records of the county’s children and for those with outstanding first or second doses of MMR inviting parents/guardians to call us to book a clinic appointment. We are running clinics in the community across the county.”

In addition to the offer of community clinics, the School-Aged Immunisation Team are also offering the outstanding MMR vaccines in secondary schools throughout this Summer Term. Please return a consent form if you receive one.

Judith added:

“I really urge you to take up the vaccine offer if you receive a letter. Measles is one of the world's most infectious diseases and there is no medical treatment for it. MMR vaccination is the best protection against becoming seriously unwell.”

The team will be out and about to increase awareness and knowledge of the MMR vaccinations and Measles/Mumps/Rubella diseases. The team will be at family centres and community clinics to provide information for: families, parents/carers, children and the wider community.

The MMR Programme starts in the baby immunisation programme. The 1st dose is usually given at 1 year old and the 2nd dose at 3 years 4 months. Older children should have two doses of the vaccine with at least a 28 day gap between.

However, there is no maximum age requirement for MMR... anyone is eligible if outstanding a dose!

Judith added: “It is perfectly normal to have questions so please do get in touch with the team so we can help you make an informed decision about giving your child the vaccine.”

If you have any questions please call our family friendly hub team on 01900 705045 or you can find out more on our public website https://www.ncic.nhs.uk/services/healthy-child-hub-0-19/school-based-immunisation-programme

To book an appointment at one of our local community clinics or  to discuss the MMR Status of your child Contact the hub – 01900 705045.

The full programme of community clinics to book onto is: