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Why it's so important to get vaccinated against measles

The MMR vaccine 

The MMR vaccine protects against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. 

It is safe, highly effective, and has been used for over 40 years worldwide. 

UK schedule: 

  • 1st dose: 12 months 

  • 2nd dose: 3 years 4 months 

Two doses provide around 99% protection. 

 

Missed a dose? 

It’s never too late to catch up. Adults can be vaccinated at any age - there’s no need to restart the course, just complete the two doses. 

People at higher risk who should be sure they are up to date: 

  • Adults born between 1970 and 1990 (may have received only one dose) 

  • Healthcare and childcare workers 

  • Travellers or people born abroad 

  • Anyone unsure of their vaccination history (check your Red Book or GP record) 

If you are unsure if you are up to date with MMR and can't find any record of vaccination, it is advised that you receive two doses to ensure that you are covered. Having extra vaccinations is very low risk, compared to the risk of getting measles.

 

Why herd immunity matters 

Herd (community) immunity provides a 'protective wall' which shields people who cannot be vaccinated, such as: 

  • Babies under 1 year old 

  • Pregnant women 

  • People receiving cancer treatment or with weak immune systems 

To stop measles spreading, at least 95% of people must receive two doses of MMR vaccine. 

When vaccination levels fall below this, the protective wall weakens and outbreaks occur - as seen in London, the West Midlands, and Wales. 

Herd immunity works like a forest where trees share nutrients and protection through their connected roots: when most trees are healthy and connected, the entire forest thrives. Similarly, when most people are vaccinated, they create a network of protection that prevents diseases from spreading, shielding even those who can’t be vaccinated, like newborns or people with weak immune systems. But if too many “trees” - or people - are unprotected, the network weakens, allowing disease to spread freely and endangering the whole community. Vaccination strengthens this human “root system,” keeping everyone safer together.