A brief history
Measles and mumps were familiar childhood illnesses long before their viruses were identified. Rubella was recognised as a separate disease in the 19th century; its link to harm during pregnancy was reported in 1941. A combined MMR vaccine was licensed in the United States in 1971.
How does it spread?
These are three separate viruses. Measles spreads very easily through airborne particles. Mumps spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions, and rubella through respiratory droplets. Rubella can also cross the placenta during pregnancy and infect the developing baby.
Symptoms and possible complications
Measles causes fever, cough and a rash and can lead to pneumonia or brain inflammation. Mumps typically causes swollen salivary glands and can cause meningitis, hearing loss or testicular inflammation. Rubella is often mild, but infection during pregnancy can cause miscarriage or serious congenital abnormalities, including hearing and heart problems.
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
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