The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine is a combination vaccine Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine that protects against three infectious diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. It is a routine childhood vaccination in many countries, including the United States. Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death. Mumps is a viral infection primarily affecting the salivary glands, causing swelling and pain in the jaw area. It can also lead to complications like meningitis (inflammation of the brain layer), deafness, and inflammation of the testicles or ovaries. Rubella is a viral infection that causes a rash and fever. While it is generally a mild illness, it can have severe consequences if contracted by pregnant women, as it can lead to congenital rubella syndrome in the unborn child. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first licensed the vaccine in the United States in 1971.

The measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine prevents Measles, Mumps, and Rubella infection.

A healthcare professional typically administers measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccines. It is usually given as an injection. The healthcare provider will determine the dosage and duration of treatment based on the specific infection and individual factors.

Common side effects of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine include mild and temporary symptoms such as soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site, low-grade fever, rash, temporary pain or stiffness in the joints, and mild swelling of the glands. Uncommon side effects may include seizures (associated with fever), temporary low platelet count, and temporary joint pain or stiffness.

The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine carries few warnings, but it is important to be aware of them. This vaccine can cause severe allergic reactions. It can cause harm to the developing fetus. This vaccine can result in Gullian Barre syndrome (severe neurological condition. While seizures following vaccination are rare, individuals with a history of seizures may have a slightly higher risk. Individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as moderate to severe acute illness, active tuberculosis, or untreated tuberculosis infection, may need to postpone receiving the MMR vaccine until the condition improves or is treated.

Suppose an individual has had a severe allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or any of its components. In that case, they should not receive further doses of the vaccine. People with severe immunodeficiency, such as certain types of cancer, HIV/AIDS with low CD4 counts (type of immune cell), or those receiving immunosuppressive treatments like chemotherapy or high-dose steroids, should not receive it. If an individual has received blood products or immunoglobulins (antibodies) within the past few months, the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine may need to be delayed. Pregnant women should not take it.

Before receiving the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine, inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies, previous adverse reactions, or a history of seizures or Guillain-Barré Syndrome (neurological disease). Individuals with severe immunodeficiency or those who have received blood transfusions or immune globulin within the past 11 months may require modified vaccination schedules. If a woman is planning to become pregnant, it is generally recommended to wait at least one month after receiving it before trying to conceive. The vaccine vial stoppers or syringe caps may contain natural rubber latex, which can cause an allergic reaction in individuals with latex allergies. If you or your child has a known latex allergy, it is important to inform your healthcare provider before receiving this injection. Discuss pre-existing medical conditions, recent treatments, and individual circumstances with your healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate approach to vaccinating against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.

1. Merck, Sharp & Dohme Corp, U.S FDA (Food Drug and Safety Administration), [Last Revised March 2023], [Accessed on 29th May 2023], https://www.fda.gov/media/75191/download
2. Merck Sharp & Dohme (UK) Limited, Electronic medicine [Last Revised November 2022], [Accessed on 29th May 2023]https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.6307.pdf
3. The Merck Manual, "Vaccines and Immunization, 19th Edition, 2018, 1080-1081

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.