MMR

Why should my child receive the MMR/MR vaccine?

Measles presents as generalised rash, cough, and high-grade fever. It may predispose a child to pneumonia, ear infection or tuberculosis.

Mumps causes salivary gland enlargement and fever. Its complications include swelling of the brain and spinal cord and it's covering, deafness or painful swelling of the testes.

Rubella presents as fever, sore throat, joint pains, and rash. If Rubella occurs in a pregnant woman, for the first time, she may have a miscarriage, or the child born may have serious congenital abnormalities.

MMR vaccine protects your child against above three illnesses

Which are the vaccines available against M-M-R and what is the schedule?

MMR Vaccine is a combination vaccine which protects against Measles, Mumps and Rubella diseases.

MR is a combination vaccine which protects against Measles and Rubella diseases.

This vaccine is predominantly utilized in the government sector.

MMR vaccine is given as three doses. The first dose is given at nine months of age, the second is given at 15 months and the third is given at four to six years.

MR vaccine (Measles and Rubella) is offered in the govt vaccination schedule, in a 2-dose schedule at 9 months and 18-24 months.

The MMR vaccine is also available in a combination with the chicken pox vaccine – MMRV.

How safe are the MMR/MR vaccines?

MMR vaccine is a safe vaccine. Soreness at the site of injection, generalised rash, fever and swelling of the glands in the neck may happen. Serious side effects are rare. As with any vaccine there is a very remote chance of a serious allergic reactions

Who should receive this vaccine?

All infants and children should receive this vaccine.

Who should not receive the vaccine?

·Individuals with a history of serious allergic reactions to a previous dose of the vaccine or known severe allergic reactions to any component of the vaccine.

·Children and adults with a weakened immune system or if any family member has a history of hereditary i m m u n e system diseases.

·Pregnant women

·Children and adults who have received blood transfusion or blood products recently

·Children and adults who certain vaccines in the preceding 4 weeks