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Travel health.
Clearly explained.

MMR vaccine

MMR is a live vaccine protecting against measles, mumps and rubella.

What is it?

Measles can cause pneumonia and encephalitis, mumps can cause meningitis and testicular inflammation, and rubella in pregnancy can seriously harm an unborn baby.

Where it may be relevant

  • Children following the routine programme
  • Adults without two documented doses or reliable evidence of immunity
  • Travellers and healthcare workers needing catch-up protection

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Two-dose course

Children and adults needing full protection

Dose 1Day 0
Dose 2At least 4 weeks

Who may be eligible

  • Most people needing routine or catch-up protection
  • People born after 1970 should particularly check whether two doses are documented

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually
  • Pregnancy and significant immune suppression are contraindications because MMR is live
  • Pregnancy should be avoided for the recommended period after vaccination

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination
  • A mild fever or rash can occur about a week after vaccination; temporary gland swelling may occur later

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the MMR vaccine protect against?

It protects against measles, mumps and rubella.

Who should consider the MMR vaccine?

It is relevant for routine childhood protection and catch-up before travel or exposure.

How many doses of the MMR vaccine are needed?

Two documented doses are normally needed, separated by at least four weeks.

Can I have the MMR vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the MMR vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.