Families encouraged to check MMRV vaccinations as measles cases rise

Families across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin are being encouraged by local health leaders to check that their children’s measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox (MMRV) vaccinations are up to date.

The call comes as the latest measles data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that from 1 January to 9 February 2026, there have been 96 cases of measles in England, with 79 cases in the 4 weeks since 12 January.

Meanwhile, the West Midlands region has had 26% of all cases in England so far this year, with 25 lab confirmed cases – compared to 76 cases in the region for the whole of 2025.

Measles can lead to complications such as ear and chest infections, fits, diarrhoea and dehydration in younger children. On rare occasions, it can lead to serious problems including meningitis, blindness and hearing loss. In a small number of cases, measles can even be fatal.

Vanessa Whatley, Chief Nursing Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin (NHS STW), said: “Measles is a highly infectious illness, and it spreads very quickly among people who haven’t received both recommended doses of the MMRV vaccine.

“With measles cases rising, we are urging families to check their children are up to date with their routine vaccinations to help protect them and the wider community.”

The vaccination, which also has a porcine gelatine-free alternative, is given in two doses, as follows:

First dose – at 12 months, alongside other routine vaccinations (and replaces the MMR vaccine).

Second dose – at 18 months for children born on or before 31 July 2024, earlier than the previous vaccination schedule for the second MMR dose.

Children who were born between 1 January 2020 and 31 August 2022 will be offered a single dose of MMRV from November 2026 as part of a catch-up. For children over the age of 6 years, it is likely they have already had chickenpox and remain eligible for their MMR vaccine.

These changes are taking place in line with clinical advice on the best way to protect children and babies from infectious diseases.

Eligible children will be invited to receive the vaccination through their GP practice, alongside other routine childhood vaccinations.

For more information, visit the NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin website.