Parent and Carer Update

Message to Families 2nd February 2024

Dear Parent / Carer

We have been asked by the Public Health and Commissioning Manager at Nottinghamshire County Council to help raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of measles and the importance of the MMR vaccination.

You may be aware that the UK Health Security Agency has declared a national incident in response to recent outbreaks of measles.  Measles is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system, spreads very easily and usually starts with cold-like symptoms followed by a rash. It can cause serious health complications like pneumonia and meningitis and can also lead to long-term health problems, such as persistent bronchitis, hearing/sight loss and seizures. Anyone at any age can be infected by the measles virus if they haven’t been vaccinated or had measles before. Those most at risk are the very young and people with weakened immune systems.

The key to preventing measles is to have the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Childhood MMR vaccination rates have declined slightly in recent years, but there are also adults who may have missed out on one or both doses of the MMR vaccination.

The MMR vaccine is safe, effective and can give lifelong protection. A pig-free version of the vaccine is also available. It is best to have the vaccination as a child, but it can be given at any age.

Parents and learners are encouraged to check their MMR status.  This can be done by checking their red book or contacting their GP surgery, where one or both MMR doses can be given if not fully vaccinated. 

It is also important for other adults to check their MMR status, namely those working with the very young or working with people with weakened immune systems; those who are going to travel abroad; and those who are planning a pregnancy. Anyone in one of these groups or who has children who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated, should contact their GP surgery.

More information and support is available via the NHS: Measles – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

We will be displaying posters and leaflets around the College, and we’d appreciate your support in explaining the information contained in this literature to your young person.

Best wishes

Mark Dale