Measles and mumps outbreaks have both been in the news a lot recently, and therefore we have been receiving increased interest in whether a child or adult needs to be immunized with the MMR vaccine.

BOTTOM LINE:

We recommend all children receive 2 MMR vaccinations at the ages recommended by Public Health Ontario: 12 months and 4-6 years. Children at high risk of exposure may receive their first shot at or after 6 months, and may receive their second booster as early as 1 month after the first.
We recommend all adults born after 1970 also receive 2 MMR vaccinations - you should check your childhood immunization records to see if you have received 2. In particular, patients born between 1980 and 1992 may be missing a second dose. Adults born before 1970 are assumed to have natural immunity from exposure as a child. Certain workplaces may still request proof of immunity - your family doctor can order a blood test to check if you are immune.
If you think you may have been exposed to a case of measles, mumps or rubella: Please report suspected and confirmed cases to the Medical Officer of Health at 519 822-2715 ext. 4752 or 1-800-265-7293 ext. 4752. After hours, weekends and holidays please call 1-877-884-8653.
Patients wishing to receive their MMR vaccination may call public health or our office to schedule the immunization.

LINKS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

Canadian Paediatric Society - Safety of MMR - Click here for link

Guelph Public Health Advisory re: Measles Feb 2015 - Click here for PDF

Recent Guelph Public Health Advisory re: Mumps - Click here for PDF