MMR Vaccine for Travel available at Worcester Travel Clinic

Your one stop Vaccination Clinic

MMR Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

MMR

Measles, mumps, and rubella are viral infections that can cause serious and potentially life-threatening illnesses, and are primarily spread through coughing and sneezing. These viruses are present in nearly every country worldwide, making vaccination particularly important for travellers. It is strongly recommended that all travellers ensure they are fully protected—especially if they are visiting for extended periods or travelling to regions where outbreaks are common. Anyone who has not received two doses of the MMR vaccine as part of the routine childhood immunisation programme should consider vaccination before travelling.

View all vaccine prices

Vaccination Pricing

£50 Per dose
£50 – £100 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

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

Claines Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01905 453 703

Email: worcestertravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Claines Pharmacy 153 Ombersley Rd, Worcester, WR3 7BX

Book this clinic

Evans Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01684 575 216

Email: malverntravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Evans Pharmacy 231 Worcester Rd, Malvern, WR14 1SU

Book this clinic

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?

MMR refers to three serious viral infections—measles, mumps, and rubella—that are highly contagious and can cause significant health complications. Measles is a respiratory infection that can lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), and even death, especially in young children and vulnerable adults. Mumps affects the salivary glands and can cause swelling, fever, and in some cases, complications such as meningitis, hearing loss, or infertility. Rubella, also known as German measles, is usually mild in children but can be extremely dangerous in pregnancy, potentially causing miscarriage or severe birth defects. These illnesses are present in many parts of the world and continue to pose a risk wherever vaccination coverage is low.

How does it spread and how to prevent it?

Measles, mumps, and rubella are all spread from person to person through respiratory droplets when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or breathes near others. These viruses are highly contagious and can survive in the air or on surfaces for a period of time. In crowded environments, such as schools, public transport, or large gatherings, the risk of transmission increases significantly. The most effective way to prevent these infections is through vaccination with the MMR vaccine, which offers strong immunity. Good hygiene practices, such as covering your mouth when coughing and regular handwashing, can also reduce the spread, but they are not a substitute for immunisation.

What are the symptoms?

Each of the three diseases has distinct symptoms. Measles typically begins with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, fever, and sore eyes, followed by the appearance of a red, blotchy rash that usually starts on the face and spreads. It may also cause white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots). Mumps often causes swelling and tenderness of the parotid glands (located near the ears), leading to a puffy face and pain while chewing or swallowing. Other symptoms may include fever, headache, and fatigue. Rubella (German measles) is usually milder, with symptoms including a pink rash, swollen lymph nodes (especially behind the ears), and mild fever. Rubella is particularly dangerous during pregnancy, as it can cause serious birth defects in unborn babies.

How long does the vaccine last?

After receiving the recommended two doses, the MMR vaccine provides long-term protection in most individuals, often lasting for life. Immunity develops in around 90–95% of people after the first dose, with the second dose offering near-complete protection. Although immunity may wane slightly in a small number of people over time, booster doses are generally not required unless there is an increased risk—such as during an outbreak or for individuals working in healthcare or travelling to high-risk areas. Checking vaccination records before travel or during pre-employment health checks can help ensure ongoing protection.

Countries I need the vaccine for

The MMR vaccine is recommended for travel to virtually all countries, as measles, mumps, and rubella continue to circulate worldwide. While the UK has a vaccination programme in place, many countries experience regular outbreaks due to lower vaccine uptake. Areas of particular concern include parts of Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Measles in particular remains a global threat and has been on the rise in recent years in regions with declining immunisation coverage. Travellers who have not received two doses of the MMR vaccine, especially those spending extended periods abroad or attending large gatherings (such as festivals or pilgrimages), should ensure they are fully vaccinated before departure.

Vaccine Side effects

The MMR vaccine is generally very safe and well-tolerated, with side effects usually being mild and temporary. Common side effects include redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site, mild fever, and occasionally a faint rash or gland swelling. Some children may develop a mild form of mumps or measles symptoms around 7 to 10 days after the jab, but these are not infectious. More rarely, side effects can include a temporary low platelet count (causing easy bruising) or a mild seizure related to fever. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare. The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, and the MMR vaccine plays a vital role in protecting individuals and communities from serious, preventable diseases.