London parents are being urged to ensure their children catch up on missed vaccinations before the new school term starts. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued this urgent call as part of a scaled-up Childhood Immunisation Marketing Campaign, aimed at preventing a further rise in measles cases.
The campaign, led by UKHSA in collaboration with the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) and NHS England, stresses the importance of protecting children against serious diseases like measles, whooping cough, meningitis, diphtheria, and polio.
In 2024, the UK experienced significant measles outbreaks, particularly in the West Midlands, North West, and London, with sporadic cases elsewhere. London accounted for 47% of all measles cases this year, with 1,121 out of 2,387 cases.
In response to rising measles cases last year, extensive MMR vaccination catch-up activities were conducted from August 2023 to April 2024, targeting communities with low vaccine uptake. An MMR Evaluation Report released by UKHSA today highlights the campaign’s success, showing a substantial increase in MMR vaccinations, especially among deprived and ethnic communities. Key findings from the report include:
- 180,000 additional MMR doses were administered, with over 51,000 given to children aged 5 or under.
- A 13% increase in vaccinations among previously unvaccinated children aged 5 or under.
- A 4.9% increase in the uptake of MMR2 among Black, Black British, Caribbean, or African children aged between 3 years 7 months and 5 years.
Despite these efforts, MMR vaccination rates remain too low in some areas, including London, leaving the potential for outbreaks as children return to school. Measles spreads easily among unvaccinated individuals, particularly in nurseries and schools, and can lead to severe illness, hospitalisation, and even death in rare cases. Vaccination not only protects individual children but also helps prevent the spread of disease and protects vulnerable populations.
Nalini Iyanger, UKHSA London, Consultant in Health Protection, said: “Measles is highly infectious and is still actively circulating here in London. It only takes one case in a school or nursery where many children are unprotected for numbers to suddenly surge in the area.
“Two MMR jabs offer the best and safest protection against measles. Unvaccinated children are at risk of serious illness or life-long complications from the disease and no parent wants this for their child.
“It is encouraging that parents, whose children have missed vaccines, are now coming forward. Still, we are a long way from ensuring all children and young people are protected and safe. Remember that vaccination doesn’t just protect the individual, it also prevents spread of the disease to others, who may be more vulnerable.
“Our campaign will be visible across multi-media channels and shows children urging their parents to get them protected.
“Parents should check their child’s vaccinations Red Book to ensure they are up to date with MMR and all their vaccines. If unsure, contact your GP practice, who can check and provide the vaccinations your child needs. Don’t put it off, please act today.”
Steve Russell, NHS National Director for Vaccinations and Screening, said: “The NHS is clear that measles can be really dangerous and so it is critical that children get vaccinated.
“So far, NHS efforts have led to thousands more young people getting protected, with over 13% of previously unvaccinated children under the age of five getting protected, but we know there is more to do.
“We are encouraging parents to come forward if their children are not fully protected and have been invited by their GP.”
Minister for Public Health and Prevention Andrew Gwynne said: “Measles cases have spiked significantly in recent years and can spread quickly among those who are unvaccinated. It can be a serious and sometimes deadly disease. Vaccines are our best form of protection, and it is vital that children receive all their vaccinations.
“With the autumn term just around the corner, I am urging all parents to catch up on any missed jabs to keep children safe as they return to the classroom or nursery.”
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
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