Understanding measles infection and how to improve uptake of the MMR vaccine

Measles is a highly infectious, notifiable, viral disease that is commonly contracted in childhood and associated with a characteristic rash. Most children and young people who contract measles make a full recovery, but measles infection is associated with rare but serious complications in vulnerable groups, such young infants, immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles infection, but uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine in the UK has fallen short of the vaccine coverage required to provide herd immunity and prevent measles outbreaks. Consequently, there has been an increase in confirmed measles infections across the UK in recent years. This article provides a brief history of the epidemiology of measles and the MMR vaccine. It also discusses the signs and symptoms of the infection and its management, including the public health measures required. The authors consider how children's nurses can enhance uptake of the MMR vaccine through health promotion discussions with parents and carers using motivational interviewing techniques.