Parents and carers across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 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) vaccine.
Latest figures* show that 86.7% of five-year-olds in Nottinghamshire have received both doses of the MMR vaccine needed for full protection, compared with just 73% in Nottingham City. Both figures remain below the 95% uptake level recommended by the World Health Organization to prevent outbreaks of measles.
For the first time, the vaccine will also include protection against chickenpox (varicella), helping protect children against four infectious diseases with a single vaccination appointment.
Families of younger children 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.
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 Dave Briggs, Executive Director of Outcomes (Medical) at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, 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 Nottinghamshire have ensured their children are vaccinated, there are still thousands of children in our area 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 this new four-in-one 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. For more information about childhood vaccinations, visit www.nhs.uk/vaccinations
