About the Mumps
Do I need a MMR vaccine?
The MMR vaccine, which protects against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella, is an important part of routine immunisation and is recommended for both children and adults who are not fully protected.
The vaccine is effective at preventing all three illnesses and can be given from 12 months of age. It is particularly important to check if you are vaccinated against MMR before travelling, as infection is prevalent in parts of Asia, Africa and South America. Because these diseases spread very easily, even short-term travel can increase your risk if you are not immune.
Measles, in particular, is one of the most contagious infections and spreads through coughing and sneezing. This means you can be exposed in airports, on planes, or in crowded public places. Mumps and rubella are also transmitted through respiratory droplets, making outbreaks possible in communities with lower vaccination rates.
Because the illness is easily transmitted through the air, MMR immunity is necessary for certain jobs. This includes healthcare workers, laboratory staff, teachers, and childcare providers, as they are more likely to be in close contact with others and at higher risk of both catching and spreading infection. Many employers in these sectors require proof of immunity.
You may need the MMR vaccine if:
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You did not receive two doses in childhood
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You are unsure of your vaccination history
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You are travelling to areas where these infections are still common
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You work in a high-risk profession
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You are in close contact with vulnerable individuals, such as pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems
For most people, two doses provide long-lasting protection. If there is any uncertainty about your vaccination status, it is safe to receive the vaccine again.
Overall, the MMR vaccine is a simple and highly effective way to protect yourself and others from three potentially serious diseases, particularly in situations where the risk of exposure is higher.
Course
The MMR vaccine protects against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. It is given as a two-dose schedule to provide long-lasting immunity.
Standard schedule (children)
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First dose: at around 12 months of age
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Second dose: at 3 years and 4 months (or before starting school)
Both doses are important to ensure full protection.
For adults
You may need the MMR vaccine if you are unsure of your vaccination history or did not receive two doses as a child.
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Two doses required
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Given at least 4 weeks apart
Even if you don’t have records, it is safe to be vaccinated again.
For travellers
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Ensure you have two documented doses before travelling
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If not fully vaccinated, complete the course at least 2–4 weeks before departure
This is especially important when travelling to areas where measles and other infections are still common.
Special considerations
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Not suitable for:
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Pregnant individuals
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People with severely weakened immune systems
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Mild illness (like a cold) is not usually a reason to delay vaccination
Common and rare side effects of the MMR Vaccination
Common side effects
These are mild and usually appear within a few days:
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Redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site
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Mild fever
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General tiredness
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Slight swelling of glands (for example, in the neck)
These symptoms typically settle on their own within a few days.
Less common side effects
These can occur about 1–2 weeks after vaccination:
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Mild rash (similar to a light measles rash)
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Fever
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Temporary joint pain or stiffness (more common in adults)
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Mild swelling of the cheeks or neck (linked to the mumps component)
Rare but serious side effects
These are uncommon but important to be aware of:
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Febrile seizures (fits caused by fever), mainly in young children
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Temporary low platelet count (which may cause easy bruising)
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Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), including:
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Difficulty breathing
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Swelling of the face or throat
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Rapid heartbeat
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Important notes
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The vaccine contains weakened viruses, so some side effects can mimic very mild forms of the illnesses
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You cannot develop full measles, mumps, or rubella from the vaccine
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Side effects are generally much milder than the actual diseases
Measles - The Illness
The initial symptoms are similar to the common cold with runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes and fever. This is followed by a rash, which spreads throughout the body. Complications of measles tend to occur in children under 5 years or adults over 20 years and include encephalitis (infection of the brain) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs).
Treatment: There is no specific treatment for measles
Mumps - The Illness
Symptoms appear 2 to 3 weeks after infection and include headache, fever, muscle ache and swelling of the salivary glands.
It tends to be mild in children, but in adults, can lead to complications such as meningitis, deafness and orchitis (infection of the testicles).
Treatment: There is no specific treatment available for mumps.
Rubella - The Illness
Symptoms include rash and fever and usually occur 2 to 3 weeks after exposure.
In adults, it can also cause painful joints and arthritis,
Treatment: There is no specific treatment for rubella
Do I need the MMR vaccine as an adult?
Yes, if:
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You did not receive two doses
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You are unsure of your vaccination history
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You are travelling to areas where these infections are still common
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You work in healthcare, education, or childcare
Is the MMR vaccine safe?
Yes. The MMR vaccine has been used for decades and is considered very safe. Most side effects are mild and temporary.
Can the MMR vaccine cause autism?
No. Extensive research has shown no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
Can I get MMR if I’m unsure about my vaccination history?
Yes. It is safe to receive the vaccine again if there is any uncertainty about previous doses.
How effective is the MMR vaccine?
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About 99% effective after two doses
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Provides long-term protection against all three diseases
