Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
Information on MMR
Risk to health
Measles and Mumps are highly infectious diseases that can lead to serious ill health consequences including in rare cases, death. Cases of measles and mumps have risen significantly globally and it’s important that anyone who hasn’t been vaccinated, obtains the MMR vaccination in order to protect themselves and others.
Un-vaccinated individuals from counties where there are mumps or measles outbreaks, those who may have come into contact with individuals from such areas and those who attend large gatherings e.g. sporting and music events are most at risk of catching these diseases. Individuals who have underlying health conditions, pregnant women, and very young babies are particularly at risk of complications.
Protect your health
The best way to protect yourself is to ensure you have had two doses of the MMR vaccine. The MMR is a safe and effective combined vaccine that protects against three separate illnesses - measles, mumps and rubella (German measles).
In the UK children are routinely vaccinated with MMR in childhood, at 13 months of age and pre-school age.
If you haven’t had two doses of MMR, or are unsure, then you should speak to your GP (doctor) as soon as possible to arrange to have the vaccine. The course of treatment can be completed at any time.
The MMR vaccine is a live vaccine which means that some people cannot have the vaccine due to underlying health conditions e.g. if they are pregnant or immunocompromised. If this may apply to you then you should speak to your GP, Practice nurse or Midwife for advice.
The MMR vaccine is provided free by the NHS to all citizens of the European Union, and any other country, who are domiciled in the UK and eligible to register with an NHS GP. If this does not apply to you there may be a charge for the vaccine.
If you need to check your immunisation status or if you would like to receive the MMR vaccination, you should contact your own GP practice.
Register with a doctor (General Practitioner) in Scotland
You need to register with a local General Practitioner (GP). Do not wait until you are ill or require treatment to register. Registering with a GP is easy and free.
Register with a doctor
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Further Information