NHS says it’s ‘crucial’ parents check children are vaccinated against deadly diseases

Health officials are urgently calling on approximately one million families to ensure their children receive vital vaccinations against potentially deadly childhood diseases.

The NHS has initiated a catch-up campaign targeting parents of children aged two to 11 who have missed their measles jabs.

This push comes after two children in England tragically died from measles this year, amidst a significant rise in cases. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports 801 measles cases already this year, compared with 959 cases in 2025.

The MMR/V vaccine provides crucial protection against measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox. General practitioners will be contacting parents of children under six to arrange these essential immunisations.

Those with children aged six to 11 will be contacted via the NHS App, text, email or letter.

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Source: The Independent, 7 July 2026