Children
Children are offered the MMR vaccine at 12 and 18 months of age through the National Immunisation Program. The second dose at 18 months also includes the varicella vaccine to protect against chickenpox and so it is known as the MMRV vaccine. See the childhood immunisation schedule.
According to the Australian Immunisation Handbook, 2 doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for everyone who does not have immunity against measles, mumps or rubella.
It is important that your child receives 2 doses of the MMR vaccine to be protected. It's never too late; older children are still eligible for the free vaccine if they haven't received it yet.
See your GP or immunisation provider if your child hasn't received their 2 doses of the MMR vaccine. You can check your family’s immunisation records on the Australian Immunisation Register.
Adult measles vaccination program
If you've never had the MMR vaccine, it's not too late. The MMR vaccine is free for everyone born after 1965. Two doses are required, at least 1 month apart.
If you're not sure whether you are fully vaccinated, have the vaccine. An extra dose of MMR vaccine will not hurt you, and will make sure you are fully protected.
Most people born before 1966 are usually immune to the disease because they had the disease as a child.
Note: While the vaccine is free, there may be a fee for the consultation.
Planning to get pregnant?
Exceptions to this vaccination are pregnant women and women planning to get pregnant. If you are planning a pregnancy, speak with your doctor about vaccination before getting pregnant. See 'Who should not have the vaccine' below for more information.
Travelling overseas?
It is especially important to make sure you are fully vaccinated against these infections before travelling overseas because these and many other diseases are still common outside Australia.