Measles and the MMRV vaccine

The NHS in Cheshire and Merseyside and is encouraging people to check that they and their children are vaccinated against measles.

Measles is one of the world's most infectious diseases. It is more than just a rash, and is a serious risk to those who are unvaccinated.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Measles symptoms to be aware of include:

• high fever
• sore, red, watery eyes
• coughing
• aching and feeling generally unwell
• a blotchy red brown rash, which usually appears after the initial symptoms.

Anyone with symptoms is advised to stay at home and phone their GP or NHS 111 for advice, rather than visiting the surgery or A&E, to prevent the illness spreading further. 

For more information about measles including images of a measles rash and spots in the mouth, see the nhs.uk website.

MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox) vaccine

The MMRV vaccine helps protect children against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (varicella).   These infections spread very easily between people and can lead to serious problems including meningitis, inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), pneumonia, and hearing loss.

MMRV has replaced the MMR vaccine in the NHS vaccination schedule. 

The MMR vaccine is still available for older children and adults born on or before 31 December 2019 who were not vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella when they were younger.  It is never too late to catch up. The MMR vaccine is free on the NHS, whatever your age. Check your child’s Red Book to see if they’ve received MMR vaccinations as scheduled or check with your GP surgery if you’re unsure. 

The MMRV vaccine is usually given to children when they are 12 months and 18 months old. Some older children are also offered it.

How to get the MMRV vaccine

Your GP surgery will usually contact you about your child's MMRV vaccinations. This will usually be by letter, text message, phone call or email.