Growth and Development

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

What are measles, mumps, and rubella?

Measles, mumps, and rubella are serious diseases that are spread from person-to-person through the air.

• measles
  Measles is caused by a virus that results in a rash, cough, runny nose, fever, and eye irritation, and can lead to ear infection, pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and death.
  
  
• mumps
  Mumps is caused by a virus that results in fever, headache, and swollen glands, and can lead to deafness, infection of the brain and spinal cord, painful swelling of the testicles or ovaries, and even death.
  
  
• rubella (German measles)
  Rubella (German measles) is caused by a virus that results in a rash, mild fever, and arthritis. It is spread from one child to another through direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat.

  
  Infants and children who develop the disease usually only have a mild case of the rash and side effects. However, children who develop the disease in utero, or from their mother while she is pregnant, can have severe birth defects and consequences. It is also very dangerous for pregnant women to come in contact with someone who has rubella, because it may cause a miscarriage.

Immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella:

Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines prevent these diseases. Most children who receive their shots will be protected during childhood. A combination vaccine is given to babies and children and provides protection against all three diseases.

When are MMR vaccines given?

MMR vaccines are given in two doses to babies and children at the following ages:

• 12 to 15 months
• 4 to 6 years, or at least one month after the first dose
• 7 to 18 years, may catch-up as needed

Children who are sick or have a fever should wait until they are well to receive the MMR vaccine. Some children should not receive MMR vaccine. These include those who have ever had an allergic reaction to gelatin or to the antibiotic neomycin, and those who have had a previous reaction to MMR vaccine. Your child's physician will advise you about vaccines in these and other situations.

What are the risks from MMR vaccines?

As with any medication, vaccines carry a small risk of serious harm, such as a severe allergic reaction or even death. Receiving a MMR vaccine is much safer than contracting any of the three diseases. Common reactions to these vaccines may include the following:

• fever
• mild rash
• swelling of glands in the cheek or neck

Severe reactions such as very high fever, seizures, or allergic reactions to these vaccines are rare. Other rare problems that may be related to MMR vaccines include deafness, long term seizures, coma, or permanent brain damage. However, experts are not sure whether these are caused by the MMR vaccines or not.

How do I care for my child after immunization with MMR vaccines?

• Give your child aspirin-free pain reliever, as directed by your child's physician.
  
  
• Watch for signs of reaction such as high fever, behavior change, seizure, or difficulty breathing. Report these or any other unusual signs immediately to your child's physician.