Vaccine uptake rates have been declining in England in recent years and there have been measles outbreaks. MMR vaccination is one of the safest and most effective ways to protect individuals from the virus and its consequences. To assure best protection, individuals require two doses of MMR vaccine Measles: the green book, chapter 21 – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) .
NHS England continues the phased delivery of national MMR call and recall as part of wider NHS measles and rubella elimination plans and to support catch up for those missed or delayed in receiving vaccinations because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
National MMR call and recall involves sending MMR vaccination reminder/s to patients registered with a general practice in England, or those resident in England who are unvaccinated or are partially vaccinated according to NHSE records.
Throughout February and March 2024, national MMR vaccination reminders will be sent to the parents/guardians of children age 6-11 years. In London and some parts of the West Midlands, NHSE plans to extend the target age cohorts so that children and young adults aged 6-25 years will receive MMR vaccination reminders.
General practices are asked to:
- Prepare to receive enquiries from their registered patients during February and March 2024 who have received a national MMR vaccination reminder,
- Check immunisation records and if required offer vaccination
Further information on the practice role in support of national MMR call and recall is available in Annex A here.
