Kent and Medway health leaders on MMR

Teen girl showing plaster on arm

Why should we be protected against measles? Read what Kent and Medway's health leaders say about the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Head shot of Kate Langford

MMR is a safe and effective combined vaccine

Dr Kate Langford NHS Kent and Medway Medical Director

NHS Kent and Medway Medical Director, Dr Kate Langford, said: "The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine, protecting you against measles, mumps and rubella.

“Getting vaccinated is important because all these conditions can also lead to serious problems such as meningitis, hearing loss and also complications during pregnancy.

“It’s also essential that children have both doses – without this, you won’t be benefiting from the protection MMR offers and it will put your children, friends and family at risk.”

Headshot of Dr Anjan Ghosh

...through two doses of the MMR vaccine measles is preventable

Dr Anjan Ghosh KCC Director of Public Health

KCC Director of Public Health, Dr Anjan Ghosh, said: “MMR vaccination rates in Kent are above the national average but well below the 95% the World Health Organisation advise is needed to prevent measles outbreaks.

“This is a concern because measles can make people very unwell, one in five children who catch it need hospital care and on rare occasions it can claim lives – yet through two doses of the MMR vaccine measles is preventable.

“MMR is safe and effective, providing life-long protection, it’s free on the NHS and, whatever your age, it’s never too late to catch up."

Emma de Vos, Immunisation Clinical Lead at Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust, added: "We provide a safe and comfortable environment for young people in our community clinics.

“We also understand some may find going along to a vaccination session stressful; our experienced nurses are on hand to help make sure you are supported from start to finish to help you get the protection you need.”