Vaccination information for children starting Reception in September 2026
A message from Public Health, NHS England North West, for parents who have children starting Reception in September 2026.
Did you know that England is no longer a measles-free country?
Over the past few years, we have seen more and more children catching measles. Most of the recent cases in England have been children under the age of 10 years old, with many outbreaks linked to nurseries and schools.
This is because measles move quickly and easily between children who are unvaccinated. We know that measles can be serious, have life-changing complications, put children in hospital, and even cause death.
The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is one of the most studied vaccines and millions of doses are given every year.
As your child starts school, we recommend that they have had two doses of the MMR vaccine to ensure they are fully protected, as the complications of measles can be severe and life changing. You will also be protecting them against the mumps and rubella, which can also be serious illnesses.
Check your child's red book to see if they have had their pre-school booster vaccine and two doses of MMR. If not, contact your GP surgery to make an appointment. It is free and will help keep your child protected.
Find out more about the MMR vaccine on the NHS website.
This year your child will also be eligible for a free nasal flu vaccine and this will be offered to them at their school during the autumn term. This is a simple spray that goes up the nose and protects them from flu bugs.
Thank you for helping to keep your child and our schools healthy.
Public Health, NHS England North West