MMR Vaccines for Children 5+ & Adults

We will shortly be sending out invites to patients of 5 years or older who have not had a full course of the MMR vaccine.

When older children and adults should have the MMR vaccine

Anyone who has not had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine should ask their GP surgery for a vaccination appointment.

It’s important to check you’ve had both doses if you:

  • are about to start college or university
  • are going to travel abroad
  • are planning a pregnancy
  • are a frontline health or social care worker
  • were born between 1970 and 1979, as you may have only been vaccinated against measles
  • were born between 1980 and 1990, as you may not be protected against mumps

Effectiveness

The MMR vaccine is very effective.

After 2 doses:

  • around 99% of people will be protected against measles and rubella
  • around 88% of people will be protected against mumps

People who are vaccinated against mumps, but still catch it, are less likely to have serious complications or be admitted to hospital.

Protection against measles, mumps and rubella starts to develop around 2 weeks after having the MMR vaccine.

Side effects

The MMR vaccine is very safe. Most side effects are mild and do not last long, such as:

  • the area where the needle goes in looking red, swollen and feeling sore for 2 to 3 days
  • around 7 to 11 days after the injection, babies or young children may feel a bit unwell or develop a high temperature for about 2 or 3 days

Some children might also cry and be upset immediately after the injection. This is normal and they should feel better after a cuddle.

It’s important to remember that the possible complications of infectious conditions, such as measles, mumps and rubella, are much more serious.

Please read these leaflets for further important information on why the MMR vaccines is a safe and important part of your child’s vaccination schedule.