Childhood Immunisation Statistics
This briefing reports on vaccinations that are given to children up to five years of age. Data is presented for constituent countries of the UK and at regional and local authority level in England. Where available international comparisons are provided.
The European Region of the World Health Organization (WHO) currently recommends that on a national basis at least 95% of children are immunised against diseases preventable by immunisation and targeted for elimination or control (specifically, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Hib, measles, mumps and rubella).
Accordingly, there is an expectation that UK coverage for all routine childhood immunisations evaluated up to five years of age achieve 95%. This briefing reports on vaccinations that are given to children up to five years of age. In 2023/24 the UK vaccination coverage rates by age five were below the 95% target for all vaccines. Immunisation rates are lowest in England followed by Northern Ireland. At the regional level, London has the lowest immunisation rates while the North East tends to have the highest levels.
Source: NHS Digital Childhood Vaccination Coverage Statistics
MMR immunisation rate trendsOf the routine childhood immunisations, MMR immunisation rates have shown the most fluctuation over time. The substantial decline in rates from the late 1990’s to around 2003/04 is likely to be due to controversy around the link between MMR and autism. Once such a link was discredited immunisation rates improved. However, rates have decreased again in recent years. This decrease in recent years can be observed in the other childhood vaccination rates too.
Source: NHS Digital Childhood Vaccination Coverage Statistics
Further informationThe majority of data in this briefing is sourced from NHS Digital’s Childhood Vaccination Coverage Statistics. More details, including local level data over time, and local area maps can be accessed from their Childhood Immunisation Interactive Dashboard.