What should you know about the measles vaccine?

Measles is a contagious viral illness that can cause fever, cough, sore eyes and a spreading rash. Vaccination prepares immune defences before exposure, reducing the chance of illness and helping limit transmission to people who cannot be vaccinated. Protection depends on receiving the doses advised for your age and circumstances; records may be checked if your history is unclear.

A sore arm, mild fever or feeling unsettled can occur after vaccination and generally settles without treatment. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, a weakened immune system, previous serious vaccine reactions, or an acute illness before the injection so they can advise you safely.

Check your immunisation record and arrange a review if doses are missing or uncertain. A clinician can explain whether MMR vaccination is appropriate, how catch-up vaccination is organised, and what to expect afterwards. If you develop fever or swollen glands after possible exposure, avoid close contact while seeking advice, especially around babies and people with reduced immunity.

Seek urgent medical help for trouble breathing, severe drowsiness, a seizure, signs of dehydration, or a rapidly worsening illness. Contact a GP promptly for fever with a rash, suspected measles exposure, or symptoms in a young child or someone with a weakened immune system. Call ahead before attending a clinic if measles is possible so staff can reduce exposure to others.

Ask which doses are recorded, whether catch-up vaccination is needed, whether another vaccine or illness changes the timing, and which reactions should prompt a call. You can also ask how to protect household members after a suspected exposure.