Urgent call for MMR vaccinations as measles cases rise in Hackney

Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis and damage to the immune system. Rarely measles can be fatal. The good news is that it is entirely preventable with two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is safe and highly effective.

To help protect residents, Springfield Park Primary Care Network, Hackney Council, the NHS, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), and local community organisations have been working together to deliver a rapid and coordinated response.

Within days of the outbreak being declared, the local health system launched an extensive action plan, including:

• Extra clinics: Springfield Park Primary Care Network set up additional vaccination clinics six days a week, offering booked appointments and walk-ins at accessible community venues. Since 1 May, 51 extra clinics have been held across GP practices and a children’s centre.
  
  
• Community-led communications: Leaflets, FAQs, and clinic details have been co-designed with residents to ensure information is clear, culturally sensitive, and accessible.
  
  
• Schools and community outreach: Local schools, early years settings, and faith and community leaders have been sharing vital advice and encouraging families to check vaccination records.

This effort has had a significant impact as more than 2,600 childhood vaccinations have been given since May, including over 1,300 doses of MMR, protecting more than 1,500 children. 

Dr Sandra Husbands, Director of Public Health for Hackney and City of London, said: “We want to thank our NHS colleagues, community leaders, and all system partners (including those in Haringey) who have worked tirelessly to respond and mobilise services so quickly.

“Just as importantly, we want to recognise the many parents, carers and residents who have stepped forward to protect their families and communities by getting vaccinated. 

“However, we know our immunisation rates are still lower than the national average and hence I continue to urge every parent and carer in Hackney to please check your child’s vaccination record today. If you’re not sure whether they are fully protected, contact your GP or health visitor. Vaccination is the best way to keep your children and our whole community safe.”

Feedback from residents has been highly positive, with one parent commenting:

“The information made us realise as a family that all the children need to be up to date with their measles jabs, including the older ones.”

Parents and carers can check their child’s vaccination status by contacting their GP practice. 

Anyone not up to date can book an appointment or attend one of the local walk-in vaccination clinics.