MMR Immunization

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The MMR Immunization

MMR, the combined measles, mumps and rubella immunization, is given after a year of age to prevent these one-time common childhood illnesses.

  • MEASLES: Fever, head congestion, eye irritation, and a blotchy rash lasting for up to a week or ten days. Occasionally pneumonia, rarely a brain infection.

  • MUMPS: Fever and swelling of the salivary glands and nodes in the neck. In male adolescents and adults mumps may cause permanent sterility.

  • RUBELLA (German measles): Usually a mild three-day fever, runny nose and rash. Rarely are there complications, except in the case of a pregnant woman who contracts rubella. The baby in this situation has a high chance of significant brain damage and mental retardation.

    These are live-virus vaccines and may cause a rash and mild illness about a week or ten days after injection. This happens in about 10% of children getting the shot. Serious reactions such as seizures are very rare. The MMR is NOT associated with the development of autism.

    There are occasional cases of measles, mumps and rubella in the United States. These are still common diseases in many less-developed areas of the world.

    The MMR is given in two shots, the first after a child turns one year old and the second at kindergarten entry. MMR is required for school entry in California. We encourage people to immunize their children including the MMR.

    There is no mercury or thimersal in the MMR vaccine.

    The official Center for Disease Control handout for MMR is available through the CDC Vaccine Information Statements site. You should review it before getting the MMR vaccine for your child.

    Ted Humphry, M.D.
    822-2441

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    last updated 10/03