Measles is a very serious illness and is particularly dangerous for babies, young children, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system. It spreads very quickly between people who are unvaccinated or partially vaccinated (received 1 dose of the MMR/MMRV vaccine, not 2).
Signs and symptoms
Measles often starts like a bad cold, with a runny nose, cough, fever, feeling generally unwell and tired. The main symptoms of measles include:
- a red rash
- a fever
- loss of appetite
- sore, red eyes
- a cough
The rash will typically appear 2 to 4 days after feeling unwell. It starts on the head and spreads down the body. The rash is not itchy.
What to do if you think you or your child may have measles
If you think you or child may have measles it is important to call your GP practice or call 111 for advice.
Stay at home until you have received advice from your GP or from 111.
Protection from measles
To protect against measles, the MMR vaccine is given. You need 2 doses for the best protection. You can have the MMR vaccine at any age.
Children born on or after 1 January 2025 are offered 2 doses of MMRV at 12 months and 18 months old. Children born before this date follow vaccination schedules depending on their date of birth, with MMR at 12 months and either MMRV at 18 months and 3 years 4 months, or at 3 years 4 months only. It is important that children are vaccinated on time to ensure full protection for themselves and the wider community.
To check if you and your child are protected against measles, you can check your vaccination status by looking at your child’s Red Book or by calling your GP practice. Information on how to register with a GP is available on GOV.UK.
Where to get vaccinated
Getting the vaccine is free and usually takes just a few minutes. Any child due their MMR/MMRV vaccinations, or anyone who has missed doses, as per the routine schedule, can contact their GP to book an appointment. It’s never too late to get a vaccination.
While measles is spreading in Haringey, children from the age of 1 to 18 can also choose to get vaccinated at a catch-up clinic with Vaccination UK. You do not need to be registered with a GP.
If you have any questions or are unsure if your child has measles or is vaccinated against measles, please contact your GP practice.
Watch Vaccination UK's video about measles in your local area.
Resources
More information and guidance: