General vaccinations

Measles is one of the world’s most infectious diseases, spread by close or direct contact with an infected person via coughing or sneezing. One person infected by measles can infect 9 out of 10 of their unvaccinated close contacts.

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, for example:

• a cough
• runny nose
• a high fever
• red, sore, watery eyes

These are followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouths.

The virus infects the mouth, nose, and throat, and can spread to the lungs and throughout the body, causing severe disease. This can result in complications such as pneumonia and meningitis, and even death.

 The best way to protect your child from becoming seriously unwell with measles is to make sure they are fully up to date with vaccinations. The measles vaccine, given in combination with the Mumps and Rubella vaccines (MMR), has been safely used for about 60 years. It is very effective, giving 99% protection from measles after two doses. 

Unfortunately, more than 20% of children turning five in Waltham Forest haven’t had a full course of MMR vaccinations. Ensuring more children get the MMR vaccination can help us stop measles, mumps and rubella from spreading and protect as many children as possible.

What is the MMR Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine.

It protects against 3 serious illnesses:ù

• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella (German measles)

These highly infectious conditions can easily spread among unvaccinated people.

The MMR vaccine is given in 2 doses as part of the NHS vaccination schedule. The first dose is usually given to children at one year old, while the second dose is at three years and four months old.

Since the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1968 it is estimated that 20 million measles cases and 4,500 deaths have been prevented in the UK.

It’s important to catch up on any missed vaccines and it’s never too late to do so. Older children and adults can have the MMR vaccine at their GP practice at any time.

How to get an MMR vaccination for your child

Children aged one to four years old

Contact your local GP to book an appointment for your child to have their vaccination. If you’re not registered with a GP, you can register online.

If you would prefer to attend an evening or weekend appointment, you can do so at one of our seven Primary Care hubs across Waltham Forest. Call 0208 519 3999 to book.

Children aged four to 18 years old

If your child attends school in Waltham Forest and has missed a vaccine, there’s still time for them to get it.

f your child attends school in Waltham Forest and has missed a vaccine, there’s still time for them to get it.

Contact your GP

Contact your local GP to book an appointment for your child to have their vaccination, or to check their vaccination status. If you’re not registered with a GP, you can register online. If you would prefer to attend an evening or weekend appointment, you can do so at one of our seven Primary Care hubs across Waltham Forest. Call 0208 519 3999 to book.

School catch-up vaccinations

Going to your GP is the quickest way to get an MMR vaccination, but it may be that your child's school will offer a catch-up dose. This will be delivered by Vaccination UK, the provider commissioned by NHS to deliver school-age immunisations to pupils across Waltham Forest. 

You will be made aware in advance of MMR vaccination catch-up clinics taking place at your school. You’ll then be provided with further information and sent a consent form to sign. Please note that your child will not be vaccinated without your consent.

Speak to your GP

If you believe your child is missing a vaccination and you don’t want to wait, you can also contact a local GP to book an appointment.

If you’re not registered with a GP, you can register online. 

If you would prefer to attend an evening or weekend appointment, you can do so at one of our seven Primary Care hubs across Waltham Forest. Call 0208 519 3999 to book.

What to do if you or your child have Measles?

If your child has measles, please speak to your GP practice or nurse who will be able to provide you with more information on treatment.

Make sure your child stays off nursery or school, for at least four days from when the rash first appears. Also avoid close contact with babies, people who are pregnant and people with a weakened immune system.

If you get measles when you're pregnant, it could harm your baby. It's important to get medical advice if you're pregnant and have been in close contact with someone who has measles