Purpose of the MMR Vaccine
MMR vaccinations aid in the prevention of rubella, mumps, and measles. Although the live viruses in the MMR vaccine are weakened, they cannot cause measles, mumps, or rubella in healthy individuals.
Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious illnesses that can cause major difficulties and are easily transmitted from person to person through the air.
Measles: The virus that causes measles produces fever, rash, runny nose, and eye irritation. Ear infections, lung infections, seizures (jerking and staring), brain damage, and even death are possible outcomes.
Mumps: The virus that causes mumps can cause fever, headaches, sore muscles, appetite loss, and enlarged salivary glands. Meningitis, an infection of the brain and spinal cord covering, deafness, excruciating ovaries or testicles swelling, and in rare cases, sterility (inability to conceive) can result from it.
Why is it critical to get MMR Vaccine?
According to the National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS) in Singapore, all children should start receiving two doses at least four weeks apart at the age of twelve months.
It is required by law to receive a measles vaccination. Getting this immunisation is also necessary in order to enrol in school.
Adults (18 years of age or older) who have not received a vaccination or who do not exhibit any signs of prior infection or immunity are recommended to receive two doses of the Singapore National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) (the first dose, and the second dose four weeks after the first dose).
Which Precautions Must I Take Prior To Receiving The MMR Vaccine?
Notify your healthcare provider if:
- You are allergic to this vaccine or any of its additional ingredients.
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
- You are taking any additional drugs
- You currently have a fever and are feeling ill.
- Because of an illness such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, your immune system is compromised.
- You are currently taking medications that suppress the immune system (e.g. high dose steroids)
- You have recently received other immunizations
- You previously suffered from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a rare nerve condition)
- You have a past medical history of bleeding disorders.
some of the side effect after taking MMR Vaccine
- Some people may feel dizzy after receiving the vaccination.
- To avoid fainting, sit for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine.
- Injection site pain, redness, and swelling
- For temporary relief, apply a cold compress to the affected area.
- You can take paracetamol to relieve pain.
- Headache
- You can take paracetamol to relieve pain.
- Children’s crying, irritability, and sleepiness
- These side effects usually subside on their own.
Please consult a doctor if these side effects do not improve or worsen.
some of the Serious side effect after taking MMR Vaccine and need to seek immediate attention.
What Are Some Rare But Serious Side Effects That Require Immediate Medical Attention?
- A drug allergy can cause one or more of the following symptoms:
- Face, eyes, lips, and tongue swelling
- Difficulties breathing
- Itchy skin rashes all over your body
If you or your child experience any of these symptoms, you or your child should seek immediate medical attention.