Vaccination Services - Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)

Measles is far more dangerous than many people realise, and it spreads incredibly easily. Outbreaks still occur, often sparked by travel, among people who are not immune. The MMR vaccine has made these diseases rare in Australia, but some adults have gaps in their protection, and a catch-up dose is simple to get.

What is MMR?

MMR is a combined vaccine protecting against three viral diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). Measles in particular can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and brain inflammation, and is one of the most contagious diseases known. Rubella is especially dangerous in pregnancy, where it can harm the baby. MMR is given as two doses for full protection.

Who is it for?

MMR is part of the routine childhood schedule (two doses in early childhood). The important adult message is catch-up: many adults born in certain years, or who are unsure whether they had two doses, may not be fully immune. People who should check and catch up include adults without documented two doses or evidence of immunity, those planning travel, healthcare and childcare workers, and women planning pregnancy (rubella immunity matters, though MMR is not given during pregnancy). It is funded for many catch-up situations; ask the pharmacist.

Getting it at a pharmacy

Trained pharmacist immunisers commonly provide MMR catch-up to adults (and children above the state minimum age). The pharmacist screens you, checks your history (and can look up your Australian Immunisation Register record), administers the vaccine, observes you for around 15 minutes, and records it. If you are unsure of your immunity, two documented doses are considered protective; if there is doubt, an extra dose is safe.

Safety and an important note

MMR has an excellent safety record; the claim that it causes autism has been thoroughly disproven by extensive research. Common side effects are mild: a sore arm, and sometimes a brief, mild measles-like reaction (low fever, faint rash) a week or so later. Because MMR is a live vaccine, it is not given in pregnancy or to people who are significantly immunocompromised; tell the pharmacist if either applies, or if you might be pregnant.

How it’s regulated in Australia

MMR is approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and funded under the National Immunisation Program, including for many catch-up situations. Pharmacist immunisers administer it under state and territory rules and record doses on the Australian Immunisation Register, with recommendations from the Australian Immunisation Handbook.