Measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox (MMRV)

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The MMRV (and preceding MMR vaccine) is often associated with childhood immunisation. However, we understand, that those aged 17 to 30 in Cornwall have often missed their vaccinations as children.

This age group is often involved in environments like universities or international travel, and this increases their exposure risks. Therefore, understanding the MMRV (and preceding MMR vaccine), and ensuring they are vaccinated, is vital for young adults in the UK.

This comprehensive guide is designed to inform you about the measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox vaccine, its importance, and how you can take action to protect yourself and those around you.

What are measles, mumps, rubella, and chickenpox?

Measles

Extremely contagious virus, 90% of unvaccinated people who come into contact with an infected person will catch the disease. Spread through coughing and sneezing. Can linger in the air for up to two hours.
It can cause severe health complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and in rare cases, death.
Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a distinctive red rash.

Mumps

Mumps spreads through infected saliva, sharing items, or other close contact. The risk of spreading the virus increases the longer and the closer the contact a person has with someone who has mumps.
Symptoms include swollen and puffy cheeks, swollen jaw, fever, headache, loss of appetite, muscle aches, and fatigue.
Can lead to inflammation of the testicles in males, inflammation of the ovaries in females, and viral meningitis in some cases. Mumps can also lead to more serious issues such as infertility, pancreatitis and hearing loss.

Rubella

Also known as German measles, it’s usually milder but poses a significant risk to pregnant women and their unborn babies.
It spreads through airborne droplets from the noses or throats of infected people.
Symptoms include mild fever, sore throat, rash that starts on the face and spreads, swollen lymph nodes.
Complications are severe in pregnant women, especially in the first trimester; as it can lead to miscarriages, stillbirths, and congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). CRS can result in deafness, cataracts, heart defects, intellectual disabilities, and liver or spleen damage.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox (varicella) is a common infection that spreads easily and mostly affects children. It usually gets better on its own after 1 to 2 weeks without needing to see a GP, but can be serious in some people.
The main symptom of chickenpox is an itchy, spotty rash. It can be anywhere on the body. Before or after the rash appears, you might also have:
- a high temperature
- aches and pains, and generally feel unwell
- loss of appetite.
How you can treat chickenpox yourself.

Background information on the MMRV vaccination

The MMRV vaccine uses weakened strains of the three viruses to stimulate an immune response without causing the diseases.

Two doses of the vaccine are required for maximum immunity: the first dose provides significant protection, while the second dose ensures long-term immunity.

After 2 doses:

around 99% of children will be protected against measles and rubella
around 97% of children will be protected against chickenpox
around 88% of children will be protected against mumps

If your child gets mumps after being vaccinated, the symptoms will usually be much milder

Common side effects are usually mild and only last 2 to 3 days.

They include:

a raised, blotchy rash (similar to a measles rash), feeling unwell and a high temperature – this may happen about 6 to 10 days after the vaccination and is not infectious
swelling around the face and aching in the joints (similar to mild forms of mumps or rubella) – this may happen about 2 to 3 weeks after the vaccination and is not infectious
a spotty rash in the area where the injection was given (similar to a chickenpox rash) – this may happen about 3 to 4 weeks after the vaccination

The spotty rash may contain infectious chickenpox virus and should be covered with clothes. As long as the spots are covered, children can go to nursery as normal.

More serious side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) are rare. The person who vaccinates your child will be trained to deal with allergic reactions and treat them immediately.

Checking and updating your vaccination status

We recommend that you check your vaccination history to ensure you’ve been vaccinated.

In the first instance, it’s best to speak to your parent or guardian to find out if you have been vaccinated. Alternatively, you can check your vaccination in your childhood medical book (also known as the red book).

You can also contact your GP surgery and find out your vaccination status through them.

Your GP can advise you on any missing vaccinations.

How to get vaccinated

Children should receive their first dose of MMRV vaccination when they are 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months.

As an adult you can still get the previous MMR vaccine at any age with the two doses given one month apart.

If you and adult and have not been vaccinated for MMR, or are unsure about your status, please contact your GP practice to check your status and arrange your vaccination if needed. You can find the details of your GP practice via the NHS GP finder.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find out if I’ve been vaccinated?

Check your medical records or consult your GP.

Are the MMR and MMRV vaccinations free?

Yes, the NHS provides these vaccinations free of charge.

What if I’m scared of needles?

Discuss your concerns with your GP; they can provide advice and support.

I’m planning a trip abroad. Should I get the MMR (adult) or MMRV (child) vaccination?

Yes, especially if travelling to areas with recent measles outbreaks.

Can I get the MMR vaccine at any age?

Yes, there’s no upper age limit for the MMR vaccine.

What if I have a mild cold?

You can still get vaccinated with a mild illness, but discuss with your GP.

Is it too late to get vaccinated if I’m already 30?

It’s never too late. If you’ve missed the vaccine, get it as soon as possible.

Can vegetarians or vegans have the MMR or MMRV vaccine?

Yes, these vaccines are suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Myth vs fact

Additional Resources and Support

MMR information from the UK Health Security Agency is available in different languages here.

If you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team on ciosicb.vaccinations@nhs.net