 |
|
What is the MMR vaccine?
The MMR vaccine protects against three diseases – measles (rubeola, red measles), mumps and rubella (German measles) - all with one shot.
Who should get the MMR vaccine?
Children should receive their first dose of MMR vaccine at 12 months of age as part of their routine vaccinations. Children should receive a second dose of MMR before they start school (usually between 4 and 6 years of age). This second dose of vaccine also protects against chickenpox and is called MMRV. All adults born since January 1, 1970 also need two doses of MMR. Adults who have only received one dose should get another dose for maximum protection. It is safe to give this vaccine to breastfeeding mothers.
How well does the MMR vaccine protect against these diseases?
Two doses provide over 95% protection against all three diseases. Vaccination also makes the diseases milder for those who may catch them.
Do I have to pay for the MMR vaccine?
No. This vaccine is free for people who live, work or attend school in Ontario.
What are the possible side effects that occur after getting this vaccine?
Most people will have no side effects. Serious side effects are very rare. Side effects are less common after the second dose of the vaccine. Possible side effects include:
- Redness, soreness or swelling where the needle was given.
- A rash 5 to 12 days after the vaccine is given, which may last for 1 to 3 days.
- Fever in the first 24 hours or 5 to 12 days after the vaccination which, rarely, can cause a seizure in a young child. One in 3,000 children with a fever may develop one of these seizures but studies show that children almost always recover completely.
- Swelling of the glands in the neck that may last for several days.
- Temporary joint pain and swelling or muscle aches within 1 to 3 weeks after vaccination.
- Meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain) which is rare (1 in 800,000 people vaccinated).
- A temporary shortage of platelets, which help the blood clot, which goes away on its own.
If I was recently vaccinated, can I give one of these diseases to someone else?
There is no risk of getting measles, mumps or rubella from a person who has just been vaccinated.
Does the MMR vaccine cause autism?
No. Studies have repeatedly shown that there is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
Does the MMR vaccine contain thimerosal?
No. The MMR vaccines used in Canada do not contain any thimerosal.
Who should not get the MMR vaccine?
The MMR vaccine should not be given if you:
- Have high fever or a serious infection more severe than a cold. Wait until you recover before getting the MMR vaccine.
- Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or are trying to become pregnant in the next month.
- Have a severe allergy to a previous dose of MMR or any component of the vaccine including gelatin or an antibiotic called neomycin.
- Have recently received a blood product (e.g. serum immune globulin). You should wait 3 to 12 months before getting the MMR vaccine depending upon which blood product you received.
- Have had another live vaccine (e.g. chickenpox vaccine) in the last 28 days. You should wait 28 days before getting the MMR vaccine.
Check with your doctor if you have a weakened immune system that lowers the body's ability to fight infections (such as HIV, cancer and certain medications).
Is it a problem to get pregnant after receiving this vaccine?
Delay trying to get pregnant for one month following MMR vaccination because of a theoretical risk to a developing fetus.
What is measles (rubeola, red measles)?
The measles virus causes a fever, rash, cough, red eyes and a runny nose. The red rash starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. Measles complications include ear infections, pneumonia, miscarriage, an infection of the brain causing brain damage, and death. It is easily spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, spreading droplets that contain the virus into the air.
What is mumps?
The mumps virus causes a fever, headache and swelling of the salivary glands in the cheeks and jaw (parotitis). Complications of mumps infection include meningitis (infection in the lining of the brain), painful swelling of the testicles or the ovaries, deafness, or miscarriage. Mumps is spread by coming into contact with an infected person's droplets such as from coughing, sneezing or even talking and from saliva of an infected person (e.g. sharing drinks, food or kissing).
What is rubella (German measles)?
The rubella virus causes a fever, sore throat, swollen lymph glands in the neck and a rash on the face and neck. The symptoms can be absent or mild in children. Adults may have a headache, weakness, runny nose, red eyes and, rarely, swelling of the joints. Rubella can also cause encephalitis (swelling of the brain). Rubella is most dangerous in early pregnancy as it can cause miscarriage, stillbirth or severe birth defects such as cataracts, deafness, heart defects, and mental retardation known as congenital rubella syndrome. Rubella is spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes or from contact with the saliva of an infected person.
Where can I find more information?
For further information, ask your health care provider or call the Toronto Public Health Immunization Information Line at 416-392-1250.
Last updated September 2011
|
|
