MMR

MMR is a combined live attenuated vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella. MMRV also covers chickenpox and is used for the second dose in Hong Kong’s childhood programme.

These viral diseases can cause complications; measles can cause pneumonia, encephalitis and death. Tell the clinician about pregnancy or weakened immunity before vaccination.

Under HKCIP, children born on or after 1 July 2018 receive MMR at 12 months and MMRV at 18 months. Adults need an individual catch-up assessment based on vaccination and immunity records, health and exposure risk.

A missing record does not prove that no dose was given. Healthcare workers, travellers and people with uncertain records should bring what they have so a clinician can determine whether catch-up is needed and the dose count.

CDC recommends two childhood doses; adult advice depends on evidence of immunity and risk category. Uncertain records do not automatically imply the same two-dose course for every adult. This is a US reference; ask a clinician to check Hong Kong catch-up arrangements.

Hong Kong childhood programme: MMR at 12 months and MMRV at 18 months. For adults assessed as non-immune, SCVPD’s June 2019 guidance advises two doses at least four weeks apart if no previous dose was given or the history is unknown, and one further dose if one was previously given. A clinician must assess immunity and records before applying this catch-up schedule.

These product names are reference examples, not a complete list of registered products or confirmation of current supply. Confirm the exact product and availability with the provider.

Common: sore arm, mild fever often 7-10 days after shot (live vaccine mimics mild infection), mild rash, temporary joint pain (more common in adult women).

Serious reactions are rare.

• Myth: MMR causes autism.

  Reality: It does not. The 1998 study that started this claim was retracted and the lead author lost his medical license. Multiple large studies across millions of children have found no link. This is the most thoroughly investigated and disproven vaccine safety claim in modern medicine.

• Myth: It's safer to catch these diseases naturally.

  Reality: Natural infection can cause serious complications, including measles-related pneumonia and encephalitis. Seek an appropriate vaccination assessment rather than relying on infection for immunity.

Eligible children: check the programme, record and appointment with the MCHC. Adults: enquire with your family doctor about assessment and catch-up, confirming the product, supply, required doses and total fee.

• CHP: measles, mumps and rubella vaccination · Centre for Health Protection, DH (HK)Source checked: 2026-10-17
• SCVPD: non-immune adult measles vaccination, June 2019 · Centre for Health Protection, DH (HK)Source checked: 2026-10-17
• CDC: measles vaccine recommendations · US CDC (Intl)Source checked: 2026-10-17