Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination in Southwark

 

Measles is spreading in London, including in Southwark, with 10,000s of children across South London at risk.

The best way to protect yourself from measles is to get the measles mumps and rubella vaccine, which is normally given to young children but can be given at any age if you haven’t had it before.

Find out how the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine protects you from serious illness, when to have it and how to get the vaccine.

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine.

Find out more about the illnesses the MMR vaccine prevents:

It’s easy for these diseases to spread among people that aren’t vaccinated.

Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can also lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.

Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

When to get the MMR vaccine

Young children get the MMR vaccine as part of the NHS immunisation programme.

The first dose of MMR vaccine is normally given when your child is 12 months old.

In Southwark MMR vaccination uptake is below the national average. In the past, there have been local outbreaks of measles.

Because of this, children who live in Southwark (and other parts of London) are offered the second dose of MMR vaccine at 18 months old. This is earlier than the national advice, to make sure they have full protection from an earlier age.

How to get your child’s MMR vaccinations

Contact your GP to book an MMR vaccination when your child is:

  • 12 months old
  • 18 months old

Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery. It’s free, you don’t need proof of address or immigration status, ID, or an NHS number.

If you have older children who haven’t had the vaccine, they are still eligible to get it for free from their GP. Adults who haven’t had the vaccine, particularly those aged under 25, are also encouraged to get it from their GPs.

One of the available MMR vaccines does contain pork gelatine as a stabiliser. If you'd prefer to have a vaccine that is animal product free, ask your GP for the Priorix vaccine.

Primary school offer

The school age immunisation service is also offering MMR vaccinations in primary schools where some children are missing doses. Look out for a message from your school.

Community MMR clinics

The council, the local NHS and the vaccine team at Guy’s & St Thomas’ have arranged community catch-up clinics at Southwark libraries for children and adults of any age who are not up to date with their MMR vaccines. Book today at the links below.

 

Page last updated: 19 March 2024

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