The MMR vaccination, safeguarding against Measles, Mumps and Rubella, is an integral part of the childhood vaccination regimen offered by the NHS. While it's rarely required, individuals who have missed any of these vaccinations can receive a catch-up dose. Furthermore, for those planning to move abroad, proof of MMR vaccination may be necessary, or they might be asked to obtain the required vaccination for visa applications.
Symptoms
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that typically begins with flu-like symptoms and may include red, light-sensitive eyes and small, greyish-white spots inside the cheeks. Symptoms usually manifest around 10 days after infection. Mumps, another viral infection, often results in painful swelling of the face, particularly under the ears, along with headaches, joint pains and fever. Rubella, once common in children, is characterised by a red rash consisting of small spots on the skin, swollen glands around the head and neck, flu-like symptoms and achy joints.
Travel Safely
When traveling to destinations outside of Europe, Gilbride Pharmacy recommends specific vaccines to ensure your well-being. These include Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio (DTP) vaccines. If you are a frequent or long-term traveller to developing countries, consider the hepatitis B vaccine. Additionally, travellers visiting rural areas of developing nations should consider the cholera vaccine (Dukoral), which also reduces the risk of common travellers' diarrhoea, caused by E. coli. Dukoral is an oral vaccine administered in two doses, one week apart.
Travellers to regions where mumps is prevalent should verify that they have received two doses of MMR before their trip. While MMR is a standard childhood vaccination, individuals born between 1980 and 1990 may not have received both doses. If you fall into this category, please confirm your vaccination status before travelling.
Vaccination Schedule
The MMR vaccine consists of two doses, typically administered during childhood. However, it can also be administered in adulthood, with two doses given over a month. It's important to note that this vaccine is strongly contraindicated during pregnancy.
Visit Us
Select your preferred Gilbride Pharmacy branch and visit their page to inquire about our MMR vaccination service, or simply drop by when it suits you. Your health is our priority, and we're here to assist you.