Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination in Southwark
The best way to protect yourself from measles is to get the measles mumps and rubella vaccine. This vaccine is normally given to young children but can be given at any age if you haven’t had it before.
Find out how the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine protects you from serious illness, when to have it and how to get the vaccine.
The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective combined vaccine.
Find out more about the illnesses the MMR vaccine prevents:
It’s easy for these diseases to spread among people that aren’t vaccinated.
Getting vaccinated is important, as these conditions can also lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide the best protection against measles, mumps and rubella.
When to get the MMR vaccine
Young children get the MMR vaccine as part of the NHS immunisation programme.
The first dose of MMR vaccine is normally given when your child is 12 months old.
In Southwark MMR vaccination uptake is below the national average. In the past, there have been local outbreaks of measles.
Because of this, children who live in Southwark (and other parts of London) are offered the second dose of MMR vaccine at 18 months old. This is earlier than the national advice, to make sure they have full protection from an earlier age.
How to get your child’s MMR vaccinations
Contact your GP to book an MMR vaccination when your child is:
- 12 months old
- 18 months old
Anyone in England can register with a GP surgery. It’s free, you don’t need proof of address or immigration status, ID, or an NHS number.
If you have older children who haven’t had the vaccine, they are still eligible to get it for free from their GP. Adults who haven’t had the vaccine, particularly those aged under 25, are also encouraged to get it from their GPs.
One of the available MMR vaccines does contain pork gelatine as a stabiliser. If you'd prefer to have a vaccine that is animal product free, ask your GP for the Priorix vaccine.
Page last updated: 12 April 2024
