MMR Vaccine for Travel - Get vaccinated at Cheltenham Clinic

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MMR Vaccine

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MMR

Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viral infections that can lead to serious, and in some cases, life-threatening complications. They are spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. These viruses are present in most parts of the world, making the risk of exposure significant, particularly for unvaccinated individuals. Vaccination is strongly recommended for all travellers, especially those visiting for extended periods or staying in close-contact environments. If you haven’t received two doses of the MMR vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunisation schedule, it’s important to get vaccinated before travelling.

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Vaccination Pricing

£50 Per dose
£50 – £100 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

Swelling of the brain
Deafness
Flu like symptoms
Red, sore eyes

James Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01242 522 880

Email: cheltenhamtravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

19 St Georges Road, Cheltenham GL50 3DT

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Wymans Brook Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01242 221 988

Email: cheltenhamtravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Unit 1, Windyridge Rd, Cheltenham GL50 4RA

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The Vaccination

Ages (Years)	Doses Required	Schedule	Time before travel	Boost required at
6 month plus	1 or 2 **	0 & 1 month	Up to day before*	n/a

*The vaccine is at its most effective when given ample time to become active. Some immunity will be provided if it is administered up to the day before travel.

**Depending on if any vaccine was administered as part of the childhood vaccination

What is MMR?

The MMR vaccine protects against three highly contagious viral infections: measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). These diseases can lead to serious complications, especially in children and vulnerable individuals. Measles can result in pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), and death; mumps can cause meningitis and permanent deafness; rubella is especially dangerous in pregnancy, where it can cause miscarriage or severe birth defects (congenital rubella syndrome). All three illnesses are preventable through a combined live attenuated vaccine, which has been part of the UK’s routine childhood immunisation schedule since the late 1980s.

The vaccine contains weakened forms of the measles, mumps, and rubella viruses, which stimulate the immune system to develop protection without causing illness. If you haven’t had both doses—whether due to age, missed appointments, or being born in a country without routine MMR vaccination—it’s recommended to catch up, particularly before travelling. Outbreaks still occur in many regions worldwide, making protection essential even for healthy adults.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

All three viruses are spread through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or close contact with an infected person. They are highly contagious—measles in particular is one of the most infectious diseases known. Because of this, widespread vaccination is crucial not only for personal protection but also for preventing outbreaks through herd immunity. Good hygiene, handwashing, and avoiding contact with infected individuals also help reduce the risk of transmission.

What are the symptoms of measles, mumps, and rubella?

Each disease has its own specific symptoms:

Measles typically begins with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and sore eyes (conjunctivitis), followed by a red blotchy rash that spreads from the head down the body. White spots may also appear inside the cheeks (Koplik spots).

Mumps often causes painful swelling of the salivary glands (usually just below the ears), fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. In more severe cases, it can lead to orchitis (testicular swelling), meningitis, or pancreatitis.

Rubella usually causes a mild fever and a red or pink rash starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body. It may also involve swollen lymph nodes and joint pain, especially in adults. Many people infected with rubella show no symptoms, but it can be devastating for unborn babies.

How long does the vaccine last?

The MMR vaccine provides long-lasting, often lifelong, protection after two doses. The first dose is typically given to children at 12–13 months of age, with a second dose at around 3 years and 4 months, just before school entry. In adults who haven’t been vaccinated or only received one dose, catch-up doses are recommended to ensure full immunity.

Countries I need the vaccine for

While MMR is not a travel-specific vaccine, it is highly recommended for all travellers, especially those visiting countries with low vaccination coverage or areas experiencing outbreaks. Measles outbreaks are not uncommon in parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Some countries, such as the United States, require proof of MMR vaccination for certain types of entry or study visas.

Side effects of vaccination

The MMR vaccine is very safe. Most people experience only mild side effects such as temporary soreness at the injection site, a low fever, or a mild rash. These effects usually clear up within a few days. Serious side effects are extremely rare, and the protection the vaccine offers against three potentially severe diseases makes it well worth having.

If you’re unsure whether you’ve had both MMR doses, we can help you check and provide the vaccine if needed. Book your MMR vaccination with us and protect yourself and those around you with quick, convenient service from our pharmacy team.