The NHS is urging parents to review their children’s vaccination records following a recent update about protection against four infectious diseases. Children born on or after December 1, 2019, who have missed one or both doses of their MMR or MMRV vaccines may now be eligible for an alternative combined vaccine.
In a recent message on X, the NHS advised parents to arrange an appointment with their GP surgery if they receive an invitation—sent through the NHS App, text, email, or letter—to update missed vaccinations. This is part of a wider initiative to improve childhood vaccination rates across England.
The combined MMRV vaccine protects against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. Previously, children received separate MMR and chickenpox vaccines when eligible. The new MMRV vaccine allows eligible children to receive protection against all four illnesses in a single injection, reducing the number of appointments and injections required.
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This vaccine is being introduced in a phased rollout across England and is only available to children born on or after December 1, 2019. Parents of eligible children will be contacted by their GP practice to arrange appointments.
Recent figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show over 800 measles cases were reported in the first half of 2026, including two deaths, compared to 959 cases reported in all of 2025. Measles cases have clustered in various parts of the country, affecting every region of England.
The data also reveals a 7.5% disparity in vaccination coverage between the most and least deprived areas. The MMR vaccination rate for both doses by age five in England is currently 84.1% (Jan – March 2026), falling short of the 95% target set by the World Health Organization (WHO). In January 2026, the WHO confirmed that the UK had lost its measles elimination status.
The NHS emphasizes that two doses of the MMR vaccine provide optimal protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent serious complications such as meningitis, hearing loss, and, in rare cases, brain inflammation.
Chickenpox is usually mild but can lead to complications like skin infections, pneumonia, and brain inflammation, especially in babies, adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The combined MMRV vaccine helps protect against these risks while minimizing the number of injections children need.
Parents who believe their child has missed one or both doses should not restart the vaccination schedule from the beginning. Instead, the NHS advises contacting the GP surgery to schedule any outstanding vaccinations and to discuss eligibility for the combined MMRV vaccine if an invitation has been received.