Parents in the East Midlands urged to use the half-term for MMR vaccines as measles continues to circulate

Parents across the East Midlands are being encouraged to use the half-term break to catch up on their child's measles vaccinations, as the disease continues to circulate.

The latest measles epidemiology report on the UKHSA Data Dashboard showed the East Midlands recorded 22 confirmed measles cases since January 2025.

There have been 27 laboratory confirmed measles cases in the 4 weeks since 22 September 2025 to 20 October 2025. London (37%, 10/27) and the West Midlands (37%, 10/27) reported the highest number of cases in the most recent 4 weeks, followed by the East Midlands (11%, 3/27).

Cases continue to predominantly be in children under the age of 10 years. Half-term provides an ideal opportunity for busy families to visit their GP surgery without disrupting school routines.

Measles spreads very easily and can cause serious complications, including ear infections, chest infections and brain inflammation. Some children require hospitalisation and may suffer lifelong consequences.

The MMR vaccine offers the best protection, with two doses providing 99% immunity against measles and rubella. The first MMR vaccine is offered to infants when they turn one year old, and the second dose to pre-school children when they are around 3 years and 4 months old.

Dr Vanessa MacGregor, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control at UKHSA East Midlands, said: "Half-term provides families across the East Midlands with a perfect window to catch up on children's MMR vaccinations without the usual school-day pressures. We are still seeing measles cases in our region, and vaccination remains our strongest defence against this highly infectious disease.

"Measles can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, brain swelling, and permanent hearing loss. Some children require intensive hospital care, which is entirely preventable with two doses of the MMR vaccine.

"I particularly want to emphasise that when we vaccinate our children, we are also protecting the most vulnerable in our communities, babies too young for vaccination and people with compromised immune systems who cannot be vaccinated themselves. Their protection depends on the rest of us being vaccinated.

"It is never too late to catch up on missed doses. I would encourage parents to check their child's red book and contact their GP surgery this half-term. The MMR vaccine is free, highly effective, and could save your child from a serious illness."

Children who cannot receive vaccines due to age or medical conditions rely on community vaccination to stay protected. High vaccination rates create a protective barrier that keeps the most vulnerable safe.

Anyone of any age who has not received two MMR doses can contact their GP surgery to book an appointment. Many practices offer online booking systems for convenience.