MMR – Measles, Mumps and Rubella (Children)
What is the MMR Vaccine?
The MMR vaccine protects children against three highly contagious viral illnesses:
- Measles – causes fever, rash, and can lead to pneumonia or brain inflammation
- Mumps – causes swollen glands, fever, and in rare cases, hearing loss or testicular swelling
- Rubella – usually mild, but dangerous if passed to pregnant women
How is it Spread?
- Through coughs, sneezes, and close contact with infected people
- By touching contaminated surfaces and then the mouth, nose, or eyes
- The viruses can survive in the air for hours
Who is at Risk?
- Children who haven’t received both MMR doses
- School-aged children during outbreaks
- Babies too young to be vaccinated (protected through herd immunity)
Signs and Symptoms:
- Measles: high fever, rash, runny nose, red eyes
- Mumps: swollen cheeks/jaw, fever, tiredness
- Rubella: mild fever, rash, swollen glands behind the ears
When to Consider Vaccination:
- At routine ages (usually 12–13 months and again at 3–5 years)
- If a child has missed a dose or is behind schedule
- Before travelling to countries where these diseases are more common
The Vaccine:
- 2 doses for full, long-lasting protection
- Safe and effective for children
- May cause a sore arm, mild fever, or temporary rash
Do
- Ensure your child receives both doses of the MMR vaccine as part of their routine schedule
- Book catch-up vaccinations if your child missed any doses
- Check your child is vaccinated before travelling, especially to areas with active outbreaks
Do not
- Assume one dose is enough — full protection requires two
- Delay vaccination due to mild illness — most children can still receive it
- Travel with an unvaccinated child to regions with known measles outbreaks