Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) Vaccination

About measles, mumps & rubella (MMR)

Measles, mumps and rubella are viral infections which can be prevented by having the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine. They remain widespread in all parts of the world but are most common in Asia, Africa and South America. Outbreaks occur in Europe, North America and Australia/New Zealand, where populations are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated.

All three viruses are caught by breathing in infected droplets released when someone with one of the viruses coughs or sneezes or is picked up from surfaces and transferred into your nose and mouth from your hands.

Who can have the MMR vaccine?

The NHS offers immunisation against MMR as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme. Anyone who has not had two doses of the MMR vaccine should ask their GP surgery for a vaccination appointment.

It is essential to check you've had both doses if you:

• are about to start college or university

• are going to travel abroad

• are planning a pregnancy

• are a frontline health or social care worker

• were born between 1970 and 1979, as you may have only been vaccinated against measles

• were born between 1980 and 1990, as you may not be protected against mumps

If you are unable to get the vaccine from your GP, we offer a private MMR vaccination service which is suitable for adults and children who:

• Haven't already had the complete course of the MMR vaccine

• Are 12 months of age or older

• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding (and not planning pregnancy one month following vaccination)

• Are not immunocompromised (a weakened immune system)

• Haven't had an allergic reaction to a vaccine before

• Haven't had a temperature in the 24 hours leading up to the appointment

How this service works

• Select your preferred service option and book an appointment

• Follow the link in your booking confirmation email to fill out the patient questionnaire (at least 16 hours before your appointment)

• One of our prescribers will review the completed questionnaire and contact you to discuss this

• Visit the branch on the selected date and time to receive the vaccine