Article published: 24 Jul 2025

MP asks for steps to increase measles vaccine uptake as cases surge

A WARRINGTON MP has asked for steps to increase the uptake of the measles vaccine amid a surge in cases.

Warrington North MP Charlotte Nichols submitted a written question on the issue to the Department of Health and Social Care and the Health Secretary.

It comes after Warrington Borough Council recently issued advice as cases of measles are continuing to rise in the borough.

Measles is a highly infectious disease that is spread through coughing and sneezing.

It can lead to serious problems such as pneumonia, bronchitis, ear infections, and on rare occasions, long-term disability or death.

Symptoms to be aware of include a high fever, sore, red, or watery eyes, coughing, small greyish-white spots in the mouth, aching and feeling generally unwell, and a blotchy red-brown rash that usually appears after the initial symptoms.

Ms Nichols asked: “What steps are planned to increase the uptake of measles vaccines?”

The question was answered by Ashley Dalton, who holds the Government post of Parliamentary Under-Secretary for the Department of Health and Social Care.

She said: “The department is working alongside its partners to increase vaccine uptake across all childhood vaccination programmes, including the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) programme.

“In light of a surge in measles cases in the north west, the UK Health Security Agency and the NHS are working with local partners to monitor the situation, provide advice, and support local communities to be aware of action they can take to protect themselves, including getting vaccinated.

“Building on the MMR coverage gains achieved in 2023/4, NHS England continues to deliver national and regional improvement plans that include activities to strengthen the routine vaccination offer and to address inequalities by supporting MMR catch-up vaccination by school-age vaccination services in schools and community settings.

“For example, summer ‘catch-up’ immunisation clinics are being set up in some of the areas with the lowest MMR uptake, including Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, and St Helens.

“National childhood vaccination communication campaigns are planned in August and September 2025 for children returning to school.

“This will be a re-launch of the 2024 childhood vaccination campaign, aimed at increasing the awareness of childhood vaccinations and encouraging parents to book catch-up appointments.

“It is vitally important that everyone takes up the vaccinations they are entitled to, for themselves, their families, and wider society.

“The MMR vaccine is highly effective, safe, and is the best way to prevent measles.”

With cases of measles on the increase in Cheshire and Merseyside, the council says it is particularly important for people to make sure they are vaccinated.

Measles is highly contagious, and being in close contact with someone who has the virus is enough to catch it if you are not vaccinated.

Just one person can pass the virus on to 15-20 people if they are in close proximity for a short period of time.

A council spokesman said: “The free MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way of protecting against measles, as well as mumps and rubella.

“Having two doses of the MMR vaccine – one from 12 months and a second from three years and four months – is the best way to protect you and help prevent it spreading, especially to those most vulnerable.

“If anyone has missed one or both doses of the MMR vaccine, contact your GP practice to book an appointment.

“Alternatively, the Living Well Bus will be providing free MMR vaccinations at various locations across Warrington. No appointment is necessary.

“If you suspect you or your child has measles, phone your GP or NHS 111 for advice. Do not go directly to the GP surgery as measles is highly infectious.

“Do not send children to school or childcare if you think they have measles.”

For more information about the MMR vaccine, visit the NHS website

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, the council’s cabinet member for health, added: “With measles cases increasing in Cheshire and Merseyside, it is vital that we send out the message to urge everyone to check your children’s MMR status, as well as your own, and ensure that you have had both doses.

“If you are not protected, please take action now. The MMR vaccine is the best way to protect ourselves and our loved ones and prevent the illness from spreading further.”

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