MMR Vaccination

The NHS has recently sent out texts to young people or their parents / carers regarding the MMR vaccine. The texts say that the patient may not have had one or both MMR vaccines (Measles, Mumps and Rubella). We have received many phone calls about this, and on checking the records we have found that the texts have been incorrectly targeted, and all records we have checked have shown that the full course has been received.

Please help us by checking the Red Book or the NHS App before contacting us – we have a large number of patients who potentially have received texts and it has already been problematic for our phone lines!

If the Red Book or the NHS App do not show that two doses of the MMR have been received (usually at 13 months and 3 years 4 months), please see the FAQ below before contacting the Practice.

redbook

If the Red Book / NHS App do show both vaccines, there is no need to contact us.

You can find more information about the MMR vaccine here.

You can find out more about measles here. If you / your child is unwell and you are concerned it could be measles, please contact the Practice.

 

Please consult the FAQ below before contacting the Practice.

Last updated: Wednesday 14th February 2024

 

 

What is an MMR Vaccination?

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine and is designed to protect against three serious illnesses: Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

These highly infectious conditions can easily spread between unvaccinated people.

 

How many MMR vaccinations should I have?

Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against Measles, Mumps and Rubella.

Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can also lead to serious problems, including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.

 

How can I check if I have had MMR vaccinations previously?

You can find out your vaccination history by logging into your NHS App or other Patient Online Service provider. For more information on this, please see our Patient Online Services page.

 

What should I do if I have only received one dose of the MMR vaccination?

You are welcome to arrange a routine appointment with our nursing team so you can complete the vaccination course.

 

What should I do if I have not had any MMR vaccinations?

You can arrange a routine appointment with our Nursing Team to receive your first MMR vaccination dose. Your second dose will need to be administered one month after the first dose and will require a further appointment with one of our Nurses.

 

Can I have the MMR vaccination if I am pregnant?

As a precaution, the MMR vaccination is not recommended for pregnant women. You should also avoid becoming pregnant for one month after having the MMR vaccine.

 

Can I have the MMR vaccination if I have a weakened immune system?

The MMR vaccination is not recommended for those with a severely weakened immune system, for example, those receiving chemotherapy.

 

How effective is the MMR vaccination?

The MMR vaccine is very effective. After two doses, around 99% of people will be protected against measles and rubella, and 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 two weeks after receiving the MMR vaccine.

 

Are there any side effects from the MMR vaccination?

The MMR vaccine is very safe. Most side effects are mild and do not last long. You may experience a sore arm, redness and some swelling at the injection site, but this should only last around 2-3 days. Around 7-11 days after the injection, babies or young children may feel a little unwell or develop a high temperature for a couple of days.

 

My employer has requested a copy of my MMR (or other) immunisation status. How can I obtain this?

As mentioned above, the quickest way to review and share your immunisation status is via your Patient Online Service app (such as NHS App or Patient Access). For more information on this, please see our Patient Online Services page.

If your medical record isn't showing one or both vaccinations, please consult the appropriate section above.

General Enquiries