Private vaccinations
MMR
Combined live vaccine protecting against measles, mumps and rubella.
About this vaccine
About MMR
MMR is a live attenuated combined vaccine that has been a cornerstone of childhood immunisation for decades. Measles is highly infectious and can cause pneumonia, encephalitis and long-term neurological complications; mumps can cause meningitis, deafness and orchitis; rubella infection in early pregnancy can cause severe congenital defects.
In the UK MMR is given routinely at 1 year and 3 years 4 months. Two documented doses are required for reliable long-term protection, and catch-up vaccination is available privately at any age.
What it protects against
Protection
Measles, mumps and rubella.
How it's delivered
Delivery
Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection.
Doses
Number of doses required
Two doses at least 4 weeks apart. Two documented doses provide approximately 99% protection against measles.
Who should have it
Who should consider it
Children from 12 months, and adults or adolescents who are not fully vaccinated. Particularly important for those planning to travel, healthcare workers, students, and women planning a pregnancy (given at least one month before conception).
Contraindications
Important information
Pregnancy (avoid pregnancy for one month after vaccination), severe immunosuppression, and confirmed anaphylaxis to a previous dose or to any vaccine component (including neomycin or gelatin). Recent immunoglobulin or blood products may reduce response — timing should be discussed with your GP.
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