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
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.
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