MMR Vaccine in Singapore: Protecting Against Measles, Mumps and Rubella

The MMR vaccine in Singapore is your shield against three infectious illnesses: measles, mumps, and rubella. These are not just childhood rashes or fevers — they can lead to serious complications, especially for little ones and those with weaker immune systems.

In Singapore, this vaccine is part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), meaning it’s a key part of growing up healthy. With travel and global movement, cases can still pop up, so staying protected matters more than ever.

Not just for children, the MMR vaccine is also important for adults who missed earlier vaccinations, travellers heading abroad, and healthcare workers who need extra protection.

What Is the MMR Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine works by helping your immune system build a strong defence against measles, mumps, and rubella without causing the diseases themselves. After vaccination, your body learns to recognise and fight off these viruses if you are ever exposed in the future.

The MMR vaccine is a 3-in-1 combination jab that guards against:

Measles: A highly contagious viral infection that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a widespread skin rash. It can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, brain inflammation, and even death in severe cases, especially among young children.

With the recent uptick in measles cases globally and heightened awareness in Singapore in 2025, it's more important than ever to stay informed about vaccination. As highlighted in this article, measles remains a real threat due to its high transmission rate and the serious complications it can cause, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.

Mumps: A viral illness that spreads via saliva and respiratory droplets. Mumps symptoms include painful swelling of the cheeks and jaw (salivary glands), fever, headache, and muscle aches. In some cases, it can lead to hearing loss, meningitis, or swelling of the testicles or ovaries.

Rubella: Also known as German measles, rubella is a mild viral illness that causes a pinkish-red rash, low-grade fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While generally mild in children and adults, it is extremely dangerous in pregnancy, as it can lead to miscarriage or serious birth defects in unborn babies (Congenital Rubella Syndrome).

The MMR vaccine is recommended under Singapore’s NCIS for children and the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) for older individuals who may need catch-up protection. Catch-up vaccination is important because skipping or delaying doses can leave individuals unprotected against measles, mumps, or rubella, all of which are highly contagious.

Catching up ensures you or your child gets the full protection intended by the vaccine, even if the routine schedule was missed.

Who Should Get the MMR Vaccine?

Whether you're a parent keeping your child on track, an adult catching up on missed vaccinations, or planning for a healthy pregnancy, knowing who needs the MMR vaccine can help prevent serious illness and protect those around you.

Here's who benefits most from staying up to date:

Children: In Singapore, all children should receive the MMR vaccine as part of the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule. It provides early protection against measles, mumps, and rubella before exposure in schools or the community.

Adults Who Missed a Dose: If you weren’t vaccinated as a child, it’s not too late. Many adults may be unaware they missed a dose, which leaves them vulnerable. A catch-up MMR vaccine ensures full protection, especially if you work with others or live in shared spaces.

Women Planning for Pregnancy: Vaccination before pregnancy is essential to prevent rubella, which can cause serious birth defects or miscarriage if contracted during pregnancy. Women should avoid pregnancy for at least one month after receiving the MMR vaccine.

Travellers: Some countries still experience measles and mumps outbreaks. Ensuring your MMR vaccination is up to date protects you abroad and helps prevent bringing infections back home.

Healthcare Workers: Those in clinical settings face a higher risk of exposure and may unknowingly transmit these viruses to vulnerable patients. MMR vaccination is recommended to safeguard both staff and patients.

The MMR vaccine is subsidised under CHAS, Pioneer Generation, Merdeka Generation, and Medisave, making it more affordable at participating clinics and polyclinics.

When and How Often Should You Get Vaccinated?

Knowing the right time to get vaccinated (and ensuring you or your child doesn't miss a dose) is key to staying protected. The MMR vaccine follows a simple schedule, but even if you've missed it, there's still time to catch up and build strong, lasting immunity.

Here's how the timing works for different age groups:

For children:

• First Dose: At 12 months of age
• Second Dose: Between 15 to 18 months

For more details on children vaccinations, refer to the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule.

If you or your child missed these:

Older children and adults can still get protected with two doses, spaced at least four weeks apart.

This is called a "catch-up" schedule, designed to provide the same level of immunity as if the vaccine had been given on time. It's important because delaying or missing the MMR vaccine leaves individuals at risk of serious illness, especially during outbreaks or travel to areas where these diseases are still common. Once both doses are done, you’re usually protected for life, no boosters needed.

Check with our GP doctor to see what’s most suitable for your age, health, or travel needs — a simple conversation could be all it takes to stay protected.

What to Expect During and After the MMR Vaccination?

The MMR vaccine is tried, tested and trusted. It has been used safely around the world, protecting millions of children and adults from serious illness. Its long-standing success makes it one of the most reliable ways to guard against measles, mumps and rubella.

Getting vaccinated is quick and simple. During the appointment, a nurse or doctor will give a small injection in the arm or thigh. You'll be asked to stay for a short while afterwards to ensure there are no immediate reactions.

Mild side effects are common and include:

• Slight fever
• A bit of soreness or redness at the injection site
• Occasional mild rash or tiredness

These usually go away in a day or two. If you’re worried or notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to contact your clinic.

Book Your MMR Vaccination in Singapore

Whether you're preparing your child for school, catching up on missed jabs, or planning a trip, the MMR vaccine offers lasting protection and peace of mind. Furthermore, staying up to date with vaccinations is one of the best ways to keep your family healthy.

Unsure if you or your child is protected? Talk to Healthway Medical GP doctors or book your MMR vaccine appointment in Singapore today.