Communicable Disease Prevention and Control

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

Mumps Information for Students and Parents

Why is the MMR vaccine being offered?

Nova Scotia has experienced three mumps outbreaks since 2005. We believe future outbreaks can be prevented by offering the vaccine.
 

What post secondary students are eligible to receive the vaccine?

The Department of Health and Wellness offers measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine to all Nova Scotians attending a university or college (both within and outside of Nova Scotia) – as well as to all students from outside of Nova Scotia attending universities and colleges in Nova Scotia. Students at private colleges are included in this program.
 

How can post-secondary students receive MMR Vaccine?

Post-secondary students can get the vaccine by asking for it at their on-campus health services office. Students can also be vaccinated at a doctor’s office. This vaccine is free of charge. Physicians will be able to bill through the MSI billing system.
 

If a student received a second dose MR (measles, rubella) vaccine; or a measles vaccine; or a mumps vaccine, should they get revaccinated with MMR?

Yes. There is no limit to the number of MMR vaccinations an individual can receive. The benefit of ensuring protection outweighs the risk of an additional dose.
 

Are people who do not attend post secondary institutions eligible to receive this MMR vaccine?

No. Post-secondary students are at an increased risk of getting measles, mumps or rubella; in part due to their social activities and living in residence or other communal living arrangements. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that students at post secondary institutions should be offered a second dose of MMR vaccine if they have not already had two doses of vaccine.
 

 
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