measlesmumpsrubella

Measlesmumpsrubella commonly refers to the protection provided against three viral diseases—measles, mumps, and rubella—through the combined vaccine known as MMR. Measles, mumps, and rubella are contagious viral infections spread mainly through respiratory droplets. Before widespread vaccination, they caused substantial illness and deaths, particularly in children.

Measles presents with high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash, and can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis, or death in severe cases. Mumps causes painful swelling of the salivary glands, often with fever and malaise, and can be associated with meningitis or, in males, orchitis. Rubella typically causes a mild fever and rash in children, but infection during pregnancy can result in congenital rubella syndrome, with serious fetal harm.

The MMR vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine given by injection as part of routine childhood immunization. Most countries administer two doses: the first at about 12–15 months and the second at 4–6 years, with catch-up doses available for older unvaccinated individuals. The vaccine is highly effective, offering about 97% protection against measles and rubella and around 88% protection against mumps after two doses. Common side effects are mild fever, rash, or soreness at the injection site. Rare adverse events include febrile seizures or temporary joint pain; severe allergic reactions are very uncommon. Contraindications include severe allergic reaction to a prior dose, pregnancy (MMR is deferred until after delivery), and certain conditions of severe immunosuppression.

Public health goals emphasize high vaccine coverage to achieve herd immunity and prevent outbreaks. Storage requires cold-chain handling, and the vaccine is routinely included in national immunization programs worldwide.