Many adults assume that vaccinations are only for children — but when it comes to measles, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether you missed your childhood jabs, aren’t sure if you had them, or are travelling to a region with rising case numbers, catching up on the MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) is a simple but crucial step you can take to protect your health and the health of those around you.

At Eltham Pharmacy, we often see adults who are surprised to learn that they’re not fully vaccinated — but the good news is that it’s never too late to catch up. If you’re wondering whether you still need protection or asking questions like can you get measles twice, this guide is for you.

Why Measles Still Matters in 2025

Measles may seem like a childhood illness from the past, but it remains a serious and highly contagious viral disease. It spreads through respiratory droplets — from coughing, sneezing, or even being in the same room as someone infected.

In recent years, measles cases have been on the rise in parts of the UK and globally due to falling vaccination rates. The World Health Organization considers two doses of the MMR vaccine the gold standard for lifetime protection, but many adults in their 20s, 30s, and even 40s missed out on one or both doses as children — particularly during periods of vaccine hesitancy.

Can You Get Measles Twice?

This is a question we hear often: can you get measles twice?

The answer is — it’s extremely rare but not impossible.

Most people who recover from measles gain lifelong immunity. However, if your immune response was weak during the first infection or if you were misdiagnosed, you could still be susceptible. What’s more common is that people mistakenly believe they’ve had measles when they’ve actually had another type of rash or viral illness — leaving them unprotected.

The safest and most effective way to ensure immunity is through vaccination.

Not Sure If You Had the MMR Vaccine?

Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Many people have no records from childhood or aren’t sure if they received the full two-dose course. If this sounds like you, here’s what you can do:

1. Check with your GP – Your GP may have vaccination records available through your NHS file.

2. Don’t delay if records are unclear – There’s no harm in having the MMR vaccine again if you’re unsure. The vaccine is safe, and a second dose simply boosts immunity if needed.

3. Ask us for advice – At Eltham Pharmacy, we can talk you through the process, assess your current needs, and refer you for catch-up vaccination where appropriate.

MMR and Travel: Why It Matters

If you’re planning to travel, particularly to Europe, Africa, or Asia, it’s important to ensure you’re fully protected. Some countries are currently experiencing measles outbreaks, and travel increases your risk of exposure in crowded areas like airports, markets, or public transport.

Proof of MMR vaccination is even required by some universities, healthcare placements, or work abroad programmes, so it’s well worth checking early. The NHS recommends that anyone born after 1970 should have two doses of MMR, spaced at least one month apart.

We recommend making sure all routine vaccinations are up to date and that you’ve received any essential travel vaccines recommended for your destination. Our pharmacy team can provide a personalised consultation to advise exactly what you’ll need before you fly.

Are Boosters Necessary?

Once you’ve had two doses of the MMR vaccine, you are considered fully protected and do not usually need a booster. However, if you’ve only ever had one dose — or none — you are not fully immune. As such, you should catch up on the missed dose(s).

Some people may also be advised to have an MMR dose after potential exposure or in an outbreak situation, but for most healthy adults, two doses for life is the standard recommendation.

How Eltham Pharmacy Can Help

At Eltham Pharmacy in London, we can support you with up-to-date travel health advice and help coordinate catch-up vaccination where needed. If you’re unsure about your MMR status, our friendly team is here to talk it through.

We can:

• –> Advise whether you may need MMR

• –> Help you access vaccination through your GP or local service

• –> Provide travel health consultations and additional vaccines if you’re going abroad

• –> Support families, students, and healthcare workers with required documentation

Don’t Wait — Check Your Protection Today

Measles isn’t just a childhood illness — it’s a very real risk for adults who haven’t been properly vaccinated. With more cases appearing in the UK and abroad, now is the time to check your immunity.

If you’re asking can you get measles twice, or simply want peace of mind before you travel, speak to the team at Eltham Pharmacy. We’re here to help you stay informed, protected, and ready for wherever life takes you.

Pop into the pharmacy or contact us today to book your travel consultation or ask about your vaccination status.

This blog was written on behalf of Eltham Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.