Preventing infectious diseases

The MMR vaccine is safe and effective.

Getting vaccinated is important because:

• it's easy for these diseases to spread among people who are not vaccinated
• the diseases can lead to serious problems including meningitis, hearing loss and problems during pregnancy

When and how to get your child’s MMR vaccinations

Young children get 2 doses of the MMR vaccine. Contact your GP to book MMR vaccinations when your child is:

• 12 months old
• 18 months old (earlier than the national advice)

One of the available MMR vaccines contains 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.

Primary school MMR vaccinations

The school-age immunisation service also offers MMR vaccinations in primary schools where some children are missing doses. Look out for a message from your school.

Vaccination at any age for MMR

If you have not been vaccinated, or you have older children who have not been vaccinated, you can still get it for free from your GP. 

The MMR is also available at selected pharmacies across south-east London.