Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
Get protected against measles The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect you and your family against these diseases. Full protection requires two doses.
For anyone not fully immunised, a catch-up vaccination is available. Contact us for more information.
This NHS leaflet tells you about the MMR vaccination or you can visit www.nhs.uk/MMR
The vaccine
MMR is a safe and effective combined vaccine that protects against 3 separate illnesses – measles, mumps and rubella (German measles) – in a single injection. The full course of MMR vaccination requires 2 doses.
Measles, mumps and rubella are highly infectious conditions that can have serious, potentially fatal complications, including meningitis, swelling of the brain (encephalitis) and deafness.
They can also lead to complications in pregnancy that affect the unborn baby, and can lead to miscarriage.
Since the MMR vaccine was introduced in 1988, it's rare for children in the UK to develop these serious conditions.
But outbreaks happen and there have been cases of measles in recent years, so it's important to make sure that you and your children are up-to-date with the MMR vaccination.
Vaccination tips for parents
For some useful vaccination tips for parents visit
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/vaccination-appointment-tips-for-parents/
What to expect after the appointment
Your baby or child may cry for a little while after a vaccination, but they should feel better after a cuddle.
Sometimes the area where the needle goes in can be sore and red for 2 to 3 days. This should go away on its own.
Some children may also develop a high temperature (fever).
How to treat a high temperature after vaccination
If your child develops a high temperature:
- make sure they're not wearing too many layers of clothes or blankets
- give them plenty to drink
- give them liquid paracetamol or ibuprofen for children to bring their temperature down