Hywel Dda University Health Board is urging young people and families across west Wales to check their MMR vaccination status and book appointments this August, following a recent child death in England and a sharp rise in measles cases across Europe.
The warning comes just weeks after similar appeals from Swansea Bay University Health Board and Public Health Wales, highlighting gaps in immunisation among socially active age groups.
The call to action targets 11–24-year-olds, particularly those entering college, university or the workforce. These groups are considered at higher risk of transmission due to lower recorded vaccination rates and increased social contact.
Dr Ardiana Gjini, Executive Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda, said: “Measles is not a mild illness – it can lead to serious complications, especially in children and vulnerable individuals. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways we can protect ourselves and our communities.”
The health board is offering appointments at local clinics across Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire throughout August. Anyone unsure of their vaccination status or who knows they’ve missed a dose is encouraged to come forward.
Appointments can be booked by calling 0300 303 8322 (option 1) or emailing ask.hdd@wales.nhs.uk.
The renewed push follows a modelling report from Public Health Wales showing that some Welsh communities, especially in university towns like Swansea, Cardiff and Aberystwyth, may be vulnerable to sustained outbreaks. The European Region has reported 127,350 measles cases in 2024, the highest in over 25 years.
Swansea Bay News previously reported on the risks posed by unvaccinated teens and students in the region, warning that gaps in MMR coverage could trigger the next outbreak: 🔗 Swansea’s MMR gaps: Why unvaccinated teens and students could trigger next outbreak
