The MMR vaccine is a powerful and secure combination of 3 vaccines. It provides resistance against measles, mumps, and rubella, three dangerous diseases. Unvaccinated people can potentially contract and spread these highly contagious diseases. It’s crucial to get the vaccine because these illnesses can also cause meningitis, hearing loss, and issues during pregnancy, among other significant problems. When should you get the measles vaccine in Kirkham? Continue reading to find out.
When should children get the measles vaccine?
As part of the NHS immunisation programme, the MMR vaccine is necessary for infants and young children.
– 1st dose – administered to one-year-old babies
– 2nd dose – administered to 3 years and 4 months old children
How will I be able to tell when my child needs a vaccination?
When your child is scheduled for routine immunisation, your GP will typically notify you. This can come in the form of a letter, text, call, or email.
The Child Health Information Service may also send you a letter informing you that your child has to get the vaccine.
It’s advisable to call your GP or pharmacy to make an appointment if you know your child needs to get a jab. It’s important not to put off speaking with them.
Why is vaccination necessary for your child?
The percentage of parents and caregivers who have given their children the MMR vaccine and other childhood vaccines has significantly reduced. This is a result of the COVID-19 pandemic that began in March 2020.
Due to the high contagiousness of the measles, even a slight drop in MMR uptake can result in an increase in cases. As international travel picks back up, there is a greater possibility that measles will be imported from nations where it is prevalent. Priority should be given to vaccinating children who fell behind during the pandemic in order to help stop an increase in measles cases.
Children should attend their regularly scheduled vaccination visits and make up for any missed shots since vaccines are still the strongest defence against infections.
When should older children and adults get the measles vaccine in Kirkham?
Anyone who has not received the MMR vaccine in two doses should request an appointment at their local pharmacy or GP.
It’s critical to confirm you’ve received both dosages if you:
– Are set to start high school or college
– Are planning a trip overseas
– Have plans to become pregnant
– Work in front-line social or health services
– Were born from 1970 to 1979, because you might only have received a measles vaccination during that time
– Were born from 1980 to 1990, because you might not have mumps protection
How to get the measles vaccine in Kirkham
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are administered into the upper arm or thigh muscle. To guarantee complete protection, the vaccination must be administered twice.
Why is the measles vaccine in Kirkham administered in two doses?
The MMR vaccine is the most reliable and safest approach to preventing measles, mumps, and rubella. Almost all people who receive 2 doses of the MMR vaccination are immune to rubella and measles. Although mumps prevention is marginally weaker, cases in those who have had the vaccine are substantially less severe.
These conditions have decreased in the UK since the introduction of the MMR vaccine in 1988.
Nevertheless, outbreaks of disease, particularly measles, have happened when fewer people get the vaccine.
How effective is the MMR vaccine?
Following two doses:
– Nearly all people will be immune to rubella and measles.
– Approximately 88% of people will be mumps-free.
Those who have had the mumps vaccine but nonetheless contract the disease have a lower risk of developing serious complications or requiring hospitalisation.
After receiving the MMR vaccine, protection against measles, mumps, and rubella begins to build up about two weeks later.
How long does the measles vaccine last?
The MMR vaccine includes the measles vaccination as one of its components. This vaccination is typically administered between the ages of 4 and 6 years old and at 12 months of age.
Normally, no more vaccinations are necessary as you get lifetime protection.
What are the side effects of the MMR vaccine?
The MMR shot is quite secure. The majority of adverse effects are minor and temporary, including:
– The site where the needle is inserted appears red, swollen, and uncomfortable for two to three days.
– Babies or young children might feel a little sickly or get an increased temperature for around 2 or 3 days about 7 to 11 days following the injection.
Additionally, some children may scream and get distressed just after the injection. This is common and the injection is very quick; so, after a hug and some reassurance, they ought to feel better.
It’s critical to keep in mind that infectious diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella may have severe effects.
Get in touch or visit us today to book your appointment for the measles vaccine.
This blog post was written on behalf of HMI Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.