Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Chickenpox

Vaccination against Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Chickenpox (MMRV)

The MMRV vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine that replaced the MMR vaccine in the routine schedule on 1 January 2026. It protects your child against four serious illnesses in fewer injections:

These conditions are highly infectious and can spread easily between unvaccinated people. 

Why the change?

The addition of the chickenpox component (Varicella) helps prevent this common, easily spread infection in children. It is usually mild, but it can lead to serious complications which need hospitalisation, including chest infections and fits.

By using the combined MMRV vaccine, the NHS has also moved the second dose earlier (from 3 years 4 months to 18 months) to ensure children are fully protected before they start nursery or pre-school.

The Vaccination Schedule

Two doses of the vaccine are required for lifelong protection. There is currently no medical treatment for measles, so vaccination is the only way to prevent becoming seriously unwell.

The MMR vaccine is still available for older children and adults born on or before 31 December 2019 who were not vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella when they were younger.

Visit the NHS website for more information about the MMRV vaccine here>>

a cartoon image of a child with chicken pox, the NHS logo and the words MMRV now protects children against measles, mumps, rubella - and chickenpox

What should I look for? How to identify the signs and symptoms

Measles usually starts with cold-like symptoms, followed by a rash a few days later. Some people may also get small spots in their mouth.

Follow this link to visit the NHS website for information on how to check if you or your child has measles>>

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

  • you think you or your child may have measles
  • you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you've not had measles before or you've not had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine
  • you've been in close contact with someone who has measles and you're pregnant – measles can be serious in pregnanc
  • you have a weakened immune system and think you have measles or have been in close contact with someone with measles.

IMPORTANT:  If you think you or your child may have measles, please do not attend the surgery.  Please contact us in the first instance via phone on 01202 822825 or 01725 517272 or email cranborne.reception@dorsetgp.nhs.uk.

 

The Practice will apply infection prevention and control measures in the management of face to face appointments required to treat or vaccinate patients against the measles.  When visiting our surgeries, please follow any instructions you are given to minimise the risk of spread of infection to patients and staff.

The NHS logo and the words signs and symptoms of measles

How to Protect Yourself Against Measles

Children who get measles can be very poorly, and some will suffer life-changing complications. The MMR vaccine is the best way for parents to protect their children from measles.

MMR is part of the NHS Routine Childhood Immunisation Programme – with one dose offered at one year and another second dose at 3 years 4 months. Parents whose infants missed out, or anyone of any age who has not yet had a vaccine, are urged to come forward. 

Contact us if you think you or your child may have missed either of these two doses.  Please phone us on 01202 822825 or 01725 517272 or email cranborne.reception@dorsetgp.nhs.uk

 

 

 

Page last reviewed: 10 January 2026
Page created: 13 April 2023