Measles, Mumps, Rubella Vaccine
● Back
to Fact SheetsWhat is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. The virus causes high fever,
cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a red blotchy rash. It can also lead to
ear infections, pneumonia, diarrhea, inflammation of the brain and death.
Measles can also make a pregnant woman have a miscarriage or give birth
prematurely.
What is Mumps?
Mumps is a virus that causes fever, headaches, and swelling and tenderness
of the cheeks and jaw. It can lead to meningitis, deafness, painful swelling
of the testicles or ovaries, and sterility. Mumps infection during the first
three months of pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage.
What is Rubella?
Rubella is a virus that is also known as German Measles. This virus may
cause fever, sore throat, swollen glands in the neck, and a rash on the face
and neck. It can lead to chronic arthritis, blood clotting problems, and
inflammation of the brain. Rubella is very dangerous in pregnant women. If a
woman gets rubella in the early part of a pregnancy, it is very likely that
her baby will have severe birth defects, or even die.
The MMR Vaccine
The MMR vaccine is a three-in-one needle that protects against measles,
mumps and rubella.
MMR is a live vaccine, given in the subcutaneous tissue. This vaccine can be
given at the same time as other vaccines. When MMR is given with other live
vaccines, like varicella, they should be given at the same time, or
separated by at least 4 weeks.
Provincial law requires 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, in order to attend
school in Ontario. The first dose must be given to children after their
first birthday and the second dose around the time they begin school
(between 4 and 6 years of age).
This vaccine should also be given to adults who are not protected against
measles, mumps or rubella. Women of childbearing age should be advised to
avoid pregnancy for 3 month following immunization with MMR vaccine.
Who should NOT get the vaccine?
- Anyone who is allergic to neomycin or gelatin
- Anyone who has had a severe reaction to this vaccine
in the past
- Anyone with a fever over 38.5 C (101 F)
- Anyone who is, or could be pregnant
- Anyone whose immune system is suppressed due to an
illness, or treatment of an illness
- Anyone who has received a live vaccine in the past
month
The MMR vaccine may be given to people who are allergic to
eggs even if they have hives, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling of
the face or mouth after eating eggs, as long as they are observed for 30
minutes after the vaccine for signs of a reaction.
Are there any side effects of the MMR vaccine?
Although side effects are rare, the most common side effects of the vaccine
are:
- Burning and/or stinging at the injection site
- Redness, soreness, and swelling at the injection site
- Other side effects include a rash or fever in some
children 5-12 days after the needle is given, lasting for a few days
- Swelling of the glands in the neck
- Allergic reactions like hives, wheezing, swelling of
the face and mouth are extremely rare, however if these symptoms occur,
seek medical attention immediately and let the Health Unit know about it
It is routine for you to sit and wait in the reception
area for 15 minutes after receiving this vaccine. Please advise the
receptionist immediately if you start to feel ill |
Leeds,
Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit -
Home Page 