Parents and carers across the Midlands are being encouraged to make sure their children are fully protected against measles and other serious childhood illnesses, as the NHS launches a major vaccination drive.

The campaign will target children aged from 12 months to 11 years who have missed one or both doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) or measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine.

Latest figures* show that 84.8% of five-year-olds in the Midlands have received both doses of the MMR vaccine needed for full protection. (87.1% in the East Midlands and 83.2% in the West Midlands).

However, this is below the 95% uptake level recommended by the World Health Organization to prevent outbreaks of measles.

Younger children are now also offered protection against chickenpox (varicella) for the first time, meaning the MMRV vaccine will help protect children against four infectious diseases with a single vaccination appointment.

Families of children aged under six will be contacted by their GP practice, while those with children aged six to 11 years will receive invitations through the NHS App, text message, email or letter. Some of these children will also be invited to community-based clinics through the school summer holidays as an alternative to attending their GP. Details of clinics or how to book can be seen here

In England more than 800 cases of measles have already been reported in the first half of 2026, compared with 959 cases during the whole of 2025. Two deaths linked to measles have also been reported this year.

Dr Ash Banerjee, Public Health Consultant with NHS England in the Midlands said:

“Measles is highly infectious and can lead to serious complications, particularly for babies, young children and people with weakened immune systems. The best protection is vaccination.

“While many families in the Midlands have ensured their children are vaccinated, there are still thousands of children in the region who are not fully protected. We are particularly concerned by lower uptake rates in some communities, which increase the risk of outbreaks.

“I strongly urge parents and carers to check their child’s vaccination record and take up the offer of the MMR or new four-in-one MMRV vaccine if they are contacted by the NHS. Vaccination remains the safest and most effective way to protect children, families and our wider communities from these preventable diseases.”

Parents who are unsure whether their child is up to date with their vaccinations can check their child’s Red Book, contact their GP practice, or access vaccination records through the NHS App.

*MMR uptake figures are from Jan – March 2026.