Protects against:
- Measles: Highly contagious viral illness causing high fever, cough, rash, pneumonia, encephalitis, and possible death.
- Mumps: Viral infection causing painful swelling of salivary glands, fever, meningitis, orchitis, and possible infertility in males.
- Rubella: Mild viral illness with rash and fever but dangerous in pregnancy, causing Congenital Rubella Syndrome (birth defects).
Who should get it:
Children (Primary Group):
- All children as part of routine childhood immunization
Also recommended for:
- Adolescents and adults who are not previously vaccinated
- Healthcare workers and travelers without immunity
- Women of child-bearing age (must avoid pregnancy for 1 month after vaccination)
Schedule:
2-dose series:
- Dose 1: 12 months of age
- Dose 2: 15–18 months or at school entry
Catch-up:
- Two doses at least 4 weeks apart for unvaccinated individuals.
Why vaccinate:
- Protects against three serious viral diseases with a single vaccine
- Over 95–97% effective after two doses
- Provides long-lasting immunity
Important note:
The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective. Mild fever or rash may occur after vaccination. Because it is a live vaccine, it should not be given during pregnancy or to severely immunocompromised individuals.