Measles/Mumps/Rubella (MMR) Vaccine in North Vancouver & West Vancouver

The MMR vaccine is recommended for the following population:

- All children (routine schedule): Kids are given 2 doses—one at 12 months old and another at 4–6 years old as part of the standard immunization program
- Older children, teens, and adults who aren't immune: Anyone who is not fully immunized, or lack immunity for measles/mumps/rubella
- Individuals born in 1970 or later may need a booster: The vaccine may be recommended for people who were born on or after 1970 who have not received 2 doses of the vaccine

The MMR vaccine is a live vaccine, and should NOT be given to the following individuals due to potential for serious adverse reactions:

- Women who are pregnant
- Women of childbearing age should avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 month after receipt of MMR vaccine
- Have a severe allergy to a previous dose or vaccine components (common allergens include gelatin, egg protein, and neomycin)
- Immunocompromised individuals (such as from cancer, immunosuppressive medications, or advanced HIV infection)

It's also usually delayed in people who are moderately or severely ill at the time.

In BC, the MMR vaccine is given in a two-dose schedule:

1. First dose: at 12 months of age
2. Second dose: at 4–6 years of age, given as combination with varicella (chickenpox) vaccine - MMRV

For older children, adolescents, or adults who have never been vaccinated or lack evidence of immunity, two doses are also recommended, spaced at least 4 weeks apart.

For individuals born in 1970 or later with only one documented dose of the MMR vaccine, at least one booster dose is recommended.

The MMR vaccine is generally safe, with most side effects being mild and short-lived (1-3 days), such as soreness or redness at the injection site, a low grade fever, or a mild rash that can appear 1-2 weeks after vaccination. Less common side effects include swollen glands or temporary joint pain, especially in teens and adults. Serious side effects are very rare but can include allergic reactions or, in people with weakened immune systems, more significant infection-related complications.

In British Columbia, the MMR vaccine is publicly funded and provided at no cost through the provincial immunization program for eligible children, consistent with routine childhood vaccination schedules offered by public health services.

Adults born in 1970 or later, who have no documentation of 2 doses, may be eligible for a booster dose at no cost.

For any other adults without documented immunity or those at increased risk for severe disease, vaccination may be recommended but not always covered under standard MSP benefits; eligibility for publicly funded immunization may depend on age, risk category, and specific public health recommendations. Some private insurance or extended healthcare plans may cover all or part of the cost of the vaccine.

It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to confirm whether the MMR vaccine is included in your benefits plan. You can also call us with your private insurance, and we can inform you whether it is covered by your plan.

No, you do not need a prescription from your doctor to receive the vaccine. Simply book an appointment with us and our pharmacist or nurse will provide the vaccine.

For children under the age of 4, please call the clinic directly as we will need to book your child in with one of our registered nurses.