100,000 Target for MMR Vaccine

By TOM BODDEN

A CAMPAIGN to immunise up to 100,000 young people who missed out on MMR vaccination when they were children was launched by the Welsh Assembly Government yesterday.

Teenagers and young adults aged 11-25 grew up when mumps was becoming uncommon after the introduction of the MMR vaccine in 1988.

Many did not catch mumps as young children or receive MMR vaccine.

There has been a dramatic increase in the incidence of mumps in Wales and across the UK over the last two years, with more than 3,000 reported cases so far this year in Wales, compared with just 72 five years ago.

The target age group will be offered MMR vaccination throughschools, colleges and universities. Those not in education or unable to attend these sessions will be offered MMR vaccination through GP practices.

Dr Richard Roberts, head of the immunisation programme said: “This is a great opportunity for those who are vulnerable because they have not received MMR vaccination to get protection against mumps, measles and rubella.

“Those in education and aged 11 to 25 should wait to be contacted through schools and colleges. Those aged 16-25 not in education should ask at their local surgery about a free MMR jab.”

Mumps can be a serious illness. But it is largely preventable through MMR immunisation, which protects about 95% of those who receive one dose, and more than 99% of those who receive two doses of the vaccine, according to public health experts