Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. These are infectious diseases that spread easily through the air and can lead to severe complications. The MMR vaccine contains weakened live viruses, but in healthy individuals, it won't cause measles, mumps, or rubella.

• Measles: The measles virus can cause a rash, cough, runny nose, eye irritation, and fever. It may lead to more serious conditions like ear infection, pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, and even death.

• Mumps: The mumps virus can cause fever, headache, muscle pain, loss of appetite, and swollen salivary glands. It can result in deafness, meningitis, painful swelling of the testicles or ovaries, and in rare cases, sterility.

• Rubella (German Measles): The rubella virus can cause a rash, arthritis (mostly in women), and mild fever. If contracted during pregnancy, it can result in miscarriage or birth defects in the newborn.

The Target Audience for the MMR Vaccine

Under the Singapore National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS), all children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine from the age of 12 months, with a minimum interval of 4 weeks between doses. Immunisation against measles is compulsory by law and is a prerequisite for school enrolment.

The Singapore National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) recommends that adults aged 18 years and older who have not been previously vaccinated, or lack evidence of past infection or immunity, should receive two doses, with the second dose given four weeks after the first.

Pre-Vaccination Precautions for the MMR Vaccine

Before receiving the MMR vaccine, inform your healthcare provider if:

• You are allergic to the vaccine or any of its ingredients, including the antibiotic Neomycin or eggs

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

• You are on any medication

• You are currently unwell or have a fever

• Your immune system is compromised due to conditions such as HIV infection or cancer

• You are undergoing treatment or taking medications that could weaken your immune system, such as high-dose steroids

• You have recently been given any other vaccines

• You have active untreated tuberculosis

• You have a history of seizures

• You have a history of bleeding disorders or recently received a blood transfusion

How the MMR Vaccine is Administered

The MMR vaccine is a combination vaccine, administered subcutaneously as a series of two doses under both the NCIS and NAIS. It may be given alone or in combination with other vaccines (e.g., Varicella) in a single shot.

Common Side Effects of the MMR Vaccine

Some individuals may feel faint after vaccination. To avoid fainting, it's recommended to sit for 15 minutes. Common side effects include:

• Pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site. A cold compress can be applied for relief.

• Fever. Paracetamol can be taken to manage the fever.

• Mild rash. This usually resolves on its own.

Serious Side Effects of the MMR Vaccine Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

Symptoms of a drug allergy may include one or more of the following:

• Swelling of the face/eyes/lips/tongue

• Difficulty breathing

• Itchy skin rashes all over the body

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.