Private MMR catch-up for adults whose childhood schedule was incomplete, missed, or undocumented. Particularly important with measles outbreaks in the UK and abroad. Combined Measles, Mumps and Rubella vaccine in a single jab. NHS routine childhood MMR remains free — this is private catch-up for adults.
Measles cases have surged across the UK and Europe since 2024 because childhood MMR uptake dropped below herd immunity thresholds in many regions. Adults who missed their childhood schedule — or got only one dose — are at significant risk during outbreaks.
How serious is measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious infections known. About 1 in 5 cases need hospital care. Complications include pneumonia, encephalitis (1 in 1,000 cases), and rare but devastating subacute sclerosing panencephalitis years later. In adults, severity tends to be higher than in children.
Why is the combined vaccine?
MMR covers Measles (highly contagious respiratory virus), Mumps (parotitis, orchitis, meningitis) and Rubella (mild in adults but devastating to a developing baby in pregnancy). All three are vaccine-preventable with one combined jab.
Symptoms to watch for
Why these three matter.
All three diseases were rare in the UK but are returning. Measles especially is causing outbreaks again.
Measles: high fever
40°C+ with rash, cough, conjunctivitis.
Measles: rash
Spreads from face downward.
Mumps: parotitis
Painful swollen salivary glands.
Mumps: orchitis
In post-pubertal males.
Rubella in pregnancy
Severe birth defects in 1st trimester.
Encephalitis
Rare but serious in measles & mumps.
Measles pneumonia
Major cause of severe illness.
Eligibility checklist
You should book MMR catch-up if…
You missed your childhood MMR or only had one dose.
You are unsure about your vaccination status (and no record available).
You are planning pregnancy and not previously vaccinated.
You are a healthcare worker with incomplete immunity.
You are travelling to a region with active measles outbreaks.
Not suitable during pregnancy (live-attenuated). Severe immunocompromise or severe allergy to a previous dose excludes. Mild illness — defer by a few days.
NHS MMR is free for children. For adults, NHS catch-up is sometimes available through your GP but waiting times have grown during outbreak response. Private gives you same-day access without booking through your GP.