My Health Visitor has advised against the MMR single vaccine, what are the reasons for this ?.

A Currently the single vaccines are not available on the NHS. This is because the MMR as a joint vaccine has had lots of research evidence done to show it is safe and effective. By contrast there is little evidence available for the single vaccines

Single vaccines are available through private clinics. It must be noted nonetheless; that there is a cost and any private clinic offering single vaccines, is offering these unlicensed. This means that they have not been subjected to any British tests to examine their safety.

As single vaccines are often imported, the Health Protection Agency warns against these vaccines as they have not been independently tested and could be less effective and unsafe.

Additionally, opting for single vaccines means that your child would need 6 separate injections (3 in the primary immunisation schedule and 3 at pre-school age). Apart from the discomfort of having 6 injections, large gaps of time are needed between each vaccine, leaving your child vulnerable to the diseases. With reduction in the uptake of the MMR vaccine these diseases are surfacing again and it must be remembered that these diseases can cause serious complications. Therefore you have to consider these risks when making your decision.

Choice is a very important part of any health care programme and your choice to select a single vaccine to immunize your child against all three of these diseases should not be argued. However, it is important that you make your decision based on the best available information so that your choice is an informed choice.

Do remember you can speak to your GP and health visitor if you require any more information.

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