Major MMR campaign among adolescents and young adults

A major campaign to get more young people vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) is underway in the North West.

Around 450,000 young people are being targeted due to the increase in cases.

NHS bosses are urging 16 to 25-year-olds to catch up on missed doses after the next phase of the vaccination campaign begins on Tuesday.

Letters and SMS are sent to them inviting them to come forward for “vital vaccination” at a pharmacy or at their general practitioner.

'Protect yourself'

Earlier this year, efforts were made to get more children aged five to 11 vaccinated with the MMR vaccine.

Uptake of the two doses in this age group was significantly lower than the World Health Organization's target of 95% coverage with two doses by age five.

The North West was the first region of England where the MMR vaccine was offered in some community pharmacies.

The program is now extended to all eligible people aged five to 25, and the number of pharmacies involved will be increased.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning at NHS England – North West, said: “With measles cases increasing in the North West and nationally, it is so important that young people receive both doses of the MMR vaccine.

“Historically, vaccination rates have been lowest in the 16 to 25 age group, but the NHS has found that these people are more likely to become seriously ill from measles and are more likely to be hospitalized.

“The MMR vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself.”

The NHS has said that measles is highly contagious and spreads very quickly between communities if people are not up to date with their MMR vaccination.

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NHS North West