MMR vaccine uptake on Island dropping year on year

Warning that further decline could increase the chance of outbreaks

Public Health says it's seeing a decline in the uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.

It's offered to children at one-year-old and again at 3 years 4 months.

Measles is usually suspected because of a rash that starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. 

However it usually starts with cold-like symptoms – runny or blocked nose, high temperature, sore throat, sore, watery, itchy eyes, and tiny white spots (called Koplik spots) which can appear inside the mouth two to three days after symptoms begin.

This week it was revealed that vaccination levels in England have hit their lowest level since 2011 - with overall coverage now stands at 89.4 per cent.

With regards to the MMR vaccine, specifically, 91.9 per cent of England's five-year-olds had received one dose - the lowest level since 2010/11 - while just 83.9 per cent had received both doses - the lowest since 2009/10.

Manx Radio contacted Public Health for an update on the situation here on the Island.

A spokesperson said: "Here on the Isle of Man we are seeing a decline in the uptake of the first MMR dose: down from 92 per cent in 2023 to 89 per cent in 2024 and the second MMR dose, down from 78.5 per cent in 2023 to 75.5 per cent in 2024.

"If the rate of MMR vaccine uptake continues to decline it would increase the chance of outbreaks of measles in the Island. 

"We would encourage children and young adults who have not completed the two doses of MMR to do so. 

"Catch up vaccines can be given at any age. 

"Two doses of the MMR vaccine give long term protection against measles infection."

Parents can check whether their children have had two MMR vaccines by checking their red book or with their GP practice. 

Young and older adults can also check this with their GP practice.

For more information on the Isle of Man vaccination programmes visit the government website.