Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) are contagious viral infections that can cause serious illness, but are preventable with vaccination.

👩‍⚕️ Symptoms

Measles: Causes fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a widespread rash. Highly contagious and can lead to pneumonia or brain complications.

Mumps: Causes swelling of the salivary glands, fever, and sometimes complications like orchitis or meningitis.

Rubella: Usually mild with a rash and fever, but dangerous in pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby.

🌍 Traveller Risk (Asia)

Measles: Circulates widely, especially in South and Southeast Asia (India, Indonesia, Philippines, Myanmar, Pakistan). Outbreaks occur in both urban and rural areas.

Mumps: Circulates in most countries; outbreaks are reported in schools or crowded settings.

Rubella: Circulates at lower levels, but outbreaks occasionally occur; vaccination coverage varies by country.

🌍 Traveller Risk (Africa)

Measles: Endemic in many countries, especially where vaccination coverage is incomplete (e.g., Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Somalia). Outbreaks are common.

Mumps: Less reported, but still circulates.

Rubella: Circulates in some regions; vaccination programs vary.

🌍 Traveller Risk (South America)

Measles: Generally lower risk due to high vaccination coverage, but outbreaks can still occur in Venezuela, Brazil, and parts of the Amazon.

Mumps: Sporadic outbreaks in schools or communities; overall risk moderate.

Rubella: Low risk due to widespread vaccination, but susceptible individuals may still be at risk in certain areas.

💉 Vaccination Recommendations

Most people are protected after receiving two doses of the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, rubella), given at least one month apart.

If you’re unsure of your immunity, a simple blood test can check.

Babies aged 6 to 12 months who are travelling to countries with outbreaks should get an early MMR dose, followed by the usual doses at 12 and 18 months.