Child immunisations

Immunisation is the best way to protect your baby from diseases like measles, rubella, tetanus and meningitis.

Try to make sure your child has their vaccinations on time to make sure they’re protected. If you’re going to be away from the GP surgery when a vaccination is due, talk to your doctor. It may be possible to have the vaccination somewhere else.

Visit NHS Choices to find out more about your child’s immunisations.

Catch-up vaccine

If you’re not sure whether your child has had all their routine vaccinations, ask your GP or practice nurse to find out for you. They will be happy to arrange the delivery of a catch up vaccine.

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)

What is the MMR vaccine?

The best way to protect yourself from measles is to get the MMR vaccine, which is given to young children as part of the NHS immunisation programme but can be given at any age if you haven’t had it before.

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine and protects against:

• measles
• mumps
• rubella (German measles).

Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can also lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.

Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella.

When to get the MMR vaccine

The first dose of MMR vaccine is normally given when your child is 12 months old. The second dose is given at 18 months old in Royal Greenwich. This is earlier than the national advice, as uptake in the borough is lower than the national average.

Contact your GP to book an MMR vaccination when your child is at 12 months old and 18 months old.

Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery. It’s free, you don’t need proof of address or immigration status, ID, or an NHS number.

If you have older children who haven’t had the vaccine, they are still eligible to get it for free from their GP. Adults of any age are also eligible for a free vaccine.