MMR vaccine

The MMR vaccine is a vaccine used to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella. This vaccine is most commonly given to children 12-15 months of age, with a second dose given between the ages of 4-6 years old. It is given as a single injection containing live, weakened forms of all three viruses. It is generally considered very safe, with few side effects. The MMR vaccine is extremely effective at preventing all three illnesses, with up to 97% protection after two doses. It is recommended for all children and adults who are not already immune.

The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective immunization that protects against three infectious diseases:

• Measles
• Mumps
• Rubella

How it works:

• The MMR vaccine is a weakened (attenuated) live virus vaccine. This means it contains small amounts of the measles, mumps, and rubella viruses that have been weakened in a lab so they can't cause the full-blown illnesses.
• When a person receives the MMR vaccine, their body's immune system recognizes the weakened viruses and mounts an immune response. This response includes creating antibodies that can fight off the actual measles, mumps, and rubella viruses if the person is ever exposed to them in the future.

Benefits:

• The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Two doses of MMR vaccine are typically around 97% effective against measles and mumps, and 93% effective against rubella.
• Vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps achieve herd immunity, which indirectly protects those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Schedule:

• The CDC recommends that children get two doses of the MMR vaccine:
  • The first dose between 12 and 15 months of age
  • The second dose between 4 and 6 years of age