For everyone from 12 months who has not had two doses. Free on the NHS at any age if you missed it. A live vaccine, so not given in pregnancy.
Last reviewed 12 September 2026UK Green Book ch. 21Live vaccine
Who can have it
Eligibility by age, on the NHS and privately
MMR protects against measles, mumps and rubella in one injection. Two doses give lifelong protection for most people. It is part of the routine childhood schedule, but adults who missed it, are unsure of their history, or need proof of immunity for work, study or travel can have it at any age.
Check what applies to you
Pick your age range and gender to see only the criteria for your group. Nothing you select is saved or sent anywhere.
Age
Privately (pharmacy or clinic)
On the NHS
Under 2 years
PrivatelyRestrictions apply
First dose from 12 months; from 6 months only for outbreaks or travel, on clinical advice
On the NHSFree for everyone
Free: routine first dose at 12 months. From January 2026 the second dose is given at 18 months (as MMRV, which also covers chickenpox).
2 to 17 years
Privately✓Available
Catch-up doses at any age
On the NHSFree for everyone
Free. Children who missed either dose can catch up at any time through their GP or the school programme.
18 to 49 years
Privately✓Available
Two doses at least one month apart if not previously vaccinated
On the NHSFree for everyone
Free from your GP if you have not had two doses or are unsure. People born between 1970 and 1990 may not have had all three components. Often requested for university, healthcare jobs and travel.
50 to 64 years
Privately✓Available
Two doses at least one month apart if needed
On the NHSFree for everyone
Free if you have not had two doses. Most people born before 1970 caught measles as children and are likely immune, but the vaccine can still be given if you are unsure or need proof.
65 and over
Privately✓Available
Can be given if needed, e.g. before travel or in an outbreak
On the NHSFree for everyone
Free if needed. People born before 1970 are usually considered immune to measles, so vaccination in this band is uncommon but not restricted.
Latest figures
How much measles is about right now
Live from official surveillance. Refreshed every few hours.
32
↓ Easing
Measles cases reported in the last 4 weeks
Four weeks to 10 Aug 2026 · previous four weeks: 84
England · UKHSA data dashboard
87.9%
Children with their first MMR dose by age 2
2025/26 · -1.0 pts on previous year · WHO target 95%
England · UKHSA data dashboard
83.8%
Children with both MMR doses by age 5
2025/26 · +0.1 pts on previous year · WHO target 95%
England · UKHSA data dashboard
1,347
↓ Easing
Measles cases reported to WHO in a year
2025 · 2024: 3,426
United Kingdom · WHO Global Health Observatory
Sources: UKHSA data dashboard, WHO Global Health Observatory.Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.Figures describe disease activity and vaccine uptake, not your eligibility.
Recommended for
All children at 12 and 18 months (routine NHS schedule)
Any child or adult who has not had two documented doses
Women planning a pregnancy who are not immune to rubella
Healthcare workers, students and travellers who need proof of immunity
Who should not have it
Pregnancy, and for one month before trying to conceive
A severely weakened immune system (for example chemotherapy, high-dose steroids, or untreated HIV with a low CD4 count)
A previous serious allergic reaction to MMR, or to neomycin or gelatin
Soon after a blood transfusion or immunoglobulin treatment (a 3 to 11 month wait is usually advised, because antibodies in the product can stop the vaccine working)
If you are unwell with a fever, vaccination is postponed. Egg allergy is NOT a reason to avoid MMR
Always tell the clinician about allergies, medicines, health conditions and recent vaccines. They will confirm the vaccine is right for you before giving it.
About the vaccine
What it protects against, how long it lasts and side effects
🛡️
Protects against
Measles, mumps, and rubella — three highly contagious viral infections that can cause serious complications including encephalitis and birth defects.
📅
When to have it
At any time — 2 doses at least 4 weeks apart if not previously vaccinated
⏳
How long it lasts
Lifelong after 2-dose course
💉
Doses
2 doses — at least 4 weeks apart
🩹
Side effects
Mild rash, low-grade fever, or temporary joint pain 1–2 weeks after injection. Usually self-limiting.
💡
Good to know
A combined live vaccine — not suitable for immunosuppressed individuals or during pregnancy.
Common questions
MMR vaccine: your questions answered
Is the MMR vaccine suitable for adults?
Yes. Adults of any age can have MMR if they have not had two doses, are unsure of their history, or need proof of immunity. It is free from your GP on the NHS, or available privately if you prefer a quicker appointment.
Do I need MMR if I was born before 1970?
Most people born before 1970 caught measles naturally and are immune. Vaccination is not usually needed, but if you are unsure and are travelling to an area with measles or work in healthcare, a clinician may recommend it. A blood test can check your immunity.
Can I have MMR while pregnant?
No. MMR is a live vaccine and is not given in pregnancy. Have it at least one month before trying to conceive, or after the birth. It is safe while breastfeeding.
How many doses of MMR do I need?
Two doses, at least four weeks apart. Two doses give around 99% protection against measles and rubella and lasting protection against mumps.
Can I have MMR if I am allergic to eggs?
Yes. MMR is grown in chick cells, not eggs, and contains no egg protein. Egg allergy is not a reason to avoid MMR.
What are the side effects of MMR?
A sore arm and, about a week later, a mild fever or faint rash in some people as the vaccine viruses work. Occasionally mild joint aches in adults. Serious reactions are very rare.
Ready to book?
Compare MMR prices near you
GPhC-registered pharmacies and travel clinics. The clinician confirms suitability at your appointment.
General information only. This page sets out the published UK eligibility criteria so you can see which apply to you. It is not medical advice and VaxiGo does not assess your suitability for any vaccine. The clinician at your appointment makes that decision with you.