Are there any reasons why the vaccine should not be given?

There are very few reasons why the MMR vaccine cannot be given. If you or your child are ill with a fever on the day the vaccination is due, delay the appointment until you are better. If you or your child has a minor illness without a fever, such as a cold, you should have the vaccination as normal.  

The vaccine should not be given to anyone who has had a severe (life-threatening) reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine.  

The MMR vaccine should not be given to pregnant women or people who have a weakened immune system (are ‘immunosuppressed’) due to treatment or a disease.  

Before having the MMR vaccine, you should tell the GP or nurse if you or your child:  

• is immunosuppressed due to treatment for a serious condition, such as a transplant or cancer, or is taking high levels of steroids or medications that significantly affect the immune system;  
• has a condition that affects the immune system; or  
• has had convulsions (fits) not associated with fever.  

You should also tell them if you are pregnant.