Posted on: 20 May 2026
Health and care partners across West Yorkshire are urging parents and carers to be aware of the signs and symptoms of measles ahead of the half term break.
As families plan more time together and travel during the holidays, there is an increased risk of infections spreading – particularly highly infectious illnesses like measles.
Measles spreads very easily among people who are not vaccinated. It can be an unpleasant illness and, in some cases, can lead to serious complications and hospitalisation, particularly for young children and more vulnerable people.
Early symptoms can feel similar to a cold and may include:
- a high temperature
a runny or blocked nose
coughing and sneezing
sore, red, watery eyes
A blotchy rash typically appears a few days later. The rash may look brown or red on white skin and can be harder to see on brown and black skin.
If you or your child develop symptoms:
- stay at home and avoid work, school or nursery
- call your GP surgery or NHS 111 for advice before attending any healthcare setting
Phoning ahead helps reduce the risk of passing the infection on to others, including babies, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.
The measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine is the most effective way to protect children against measles. Two doses provide excellent long-term protection and help reduce the risk of outbreaks in the community. Since January 2026, the MMRV vaccine has been part of the routine childhood programme for younger children, offering protection against four serious infections, including chickenpox.
Parents and carers are encouraged to check their child’s vaccination record and contact their GP practice to catch up on any missed doses. Older children and adults who are not fully vaccinated can still receive the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) for free on the NHS.
Dr James Thomas, Medical Director at NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, said: “High vaccination uptake is important to prevent outbreaks and protect those who cannot be vaccinated themselves, including very young babies.
With cases rising in recent years and outbreaks often linked to nurseries and schools, taking simple steps now can help keep families safe.”
If you are worried that your child is unwell, you can find out more about the signs and symptoms of measles, including what the rash looks like, on the West Yorkshire Healthier Together website wyhealthiertogether.nhs.uk/
For more information about measles symptoms and MMR and MMRV vaccinations, visit the NHS website:
- Measles www.
nhs.uk/ conditions/ measles - MMRV vaccination www.
nhs.uk/ vaccinations/ mmrv-vaccine - MMR vaccination www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/mmr-vaccine