Measles

Cases of measles have been identified across Greater Manchester and the UK. The Health Protection Agency and the NHS in Greater Manchester strongly recommend that your child is protected against this highly infectious disease by having an measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) jab.

Measles is a highly infectious virus. It starts with a high temperature, and conjunctivitis (red sore eyes) before a rash develops. The rash often lasts about a week. About one in ten children develop complications from measles including pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain) and sometimes death.

You can protect your child by ensuring they have the MMR jab. Two doses are required for full protection. The first MMR vaccination is usually given to children at around 13 months. A second dose is given with the pre-school booster immunisation at three years and four months of age. The vaccine is used worldwide and is very safe.

If your child is not fully immunised with the MMR vaccine please contact your GP as soon as possible. Further advice is available on the MMR vaccine.

This page was last updated on 18 August 2011