HSE begins catch-up programme for MMR vaccine after Ireland records fifth measles case

The roll-out campaign will see the delivery of the MMR vaccine to those who may have missed it in the past and will include children, young adults and healthcare workers. File picture: Getty Images

The HSE has started the roll-out of the measles MMR vaccine across the country following an increase in cases in the United Kingdom and Europe.

The catch-up programme comes as Ireland recorded its fifth case in 2024 last week.

The highly infectious disease can cause serious complications, especially in children under the age of one, pregnant people, and immunosuppressed people, according to the HSE. 

The roll-out campaign will see the delivery of the MMR vaccine to those who may have missed it in the past and will include children, young adults and healthcare workers.

It will be made available free of charge at GPs to all groups — particularly to those aged under 18. Those eligible, aged five and older, can apply for an appointment via the HSE website to receive the vaccine in community settings.

In Cork, walk-in appointments are also available at these clinics:

• Bantry Newtown Vaccination Centre, Bantry – March 19, 9am – 4.30pm 
• Newmarket Primary Care, Newmarket – March 20, 10am – 4pm; 
• Kinsale Primary Care Centre, Kinsale – March 20, 9am – 3pm; 
• Skibbereen Dental Building, Mobile Vac Centre, Coolnagarrane, Skibbereen – March 21, 9am – 4pm; 
• Teach Mhuire, Mayfield, Cork City – March 22, 10am - 4pm.

Additionally, targeted clinics will also be provided for students and young adults in education settings, underserved groups including refugees, applicants seeking protection and other minority groups.

The HSE added that anyone born in Ireland after 1978 outside of the groups specified, who may have missed an MMR vaccine is advised to schedule a vaccination.

The roll-out follows a resurgence of measles that was reported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in England last year, particularly in the West Midlands and London. There has also been an increase in cases across Europe including Romania, Cyprus and Austria.

What's your view on this issue?

You can tell us here

Director of the HSE National Immunisation Office, Dr Lucy Jessop said the only “protection against measles is vaccination.” 

“Measles is highly infectious and can be an acute and serious infection. It causes a rash illness, with cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis and high fever,” she said.

“Complications of measles include ear infections, pneumonia, febrile seizures and less commonly encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and even death.

“The only protection against measles is vaccination. Two doses of MMR vaccine are needed and if a child or young adult is not fully protected then MMR vaccines can be obtained from your GP or HSE Vaccination Clinic,” Dr Jessop added.