There are 2 vaccines available in B.C. that provide protection against measles:
- Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine
- Measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine
The vaccines are provided free as part of routine childhood immunizations and to others that need protection against measles. For more information, see HealthLinkBC File #14a Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine and HealthLinkBC File #14e Measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine.
Measles vaccine for children
Children get the first dose at 12 months and the second dose at 4-6 years (MMRV).
In B.C., children are routinely provided with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine with the first dose of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine given at 12 months and the second dose of measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine given at 4 to 6 years.
If travelling, kids 6–12 months may need an early dose before departure.
Children from six months of age travelling to parts of the world where measles is more common can receive MMR vaccine prior to departure. They will then require two doses of vaccine after they reach 12 months to be fully protected.
Children between one and 4 years can also get their second dose early if travelling to areas where measles is spreading.
Measles vaccine for adults
Adults born in 1970 or later need 2 doses of measles-containing vaccine (MMR).
Adults born in 1970 or later should ensure they have received two doses of a measles-containing vaccine as one dose is not enough to ensure adequate protection. Adults born before 1970 are generally assumed to have acquired immunity to measles from exposure to measles before immunization was widely available.
Vaccination and pregnancy
Women should avoid becoming pregnant for one month after getting the vaccine. MMR is a live vaccine, so it is not recommended that pregnant women be vaccinated for measles until after they give birth. Everyone within the same household should be up to date on vaccinations to protect you and your baby
If you are breastfeeding or chest feeding, the MMR vaccine is safe for you and the baby.
New to Canada
If you’ve just moved to Canada, it’s important to make sure you have received all the vaccines recommended for children and adults in B.C. These vaccines might be different from those recommended in your home country.
If you are missing any recommended vaccines, you can receive these missing routine vaccines for free.
Where to get vaccinated
People can get free measles vaccines from their local health unit or health centre. Some doctors and nurse practitioners also offer vaccines to infants, children and adults. Call your health care provider to make an appointment.
Children 4 years and older, as well as adults, can be vaccinated at a pharmacy. To find a BC pharmacy with the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine: BC Pharmacy Association: MMR Vaccine Clinic Locator.
In First Nations communities, people can also be immunized by their community health nurse at their community health centre or nursing station.
If you are travelling to a country where measles is common, you can be vaccinated through a travel health clinic. To find a travel health clinic near you, visit the HealthLink BC Directory.
Visit the Government of British Columbia website for information on Routine immunizations in B.C. and learn how to access and update your immunization records via Health Gateway.
If you have more questions on measles and vaccinations, call 8-1-1.