Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases with serious or sometimes deadly consequences, such as deafness, meningitis, or brain enlargement. 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. Although outbreaks are uncommon in the UK, it is crucial to keep your vaccine status up to date.
Who can have the MMR vaccine?
The MMR vaccine gives long lasting protection with just 2 doses of the vaccine. The first dose is given at the age of 12 months and the second dose is given at around 3 years and 4 months, before starting school. Having both doses gives long lasting protection against measles, mumps and rubella. In adults and older children the 2 doses can be given with a one month gap between them.