MMR vaccination

MMR vaccination

The standard vaccination for preventing measles, mumps and rubella.
Course
• First shot at 12–15 months.
• Second shot at age 4–6 or 11–12.
 
Adverse reactions
Anaphylactic shock, especially after egg ingestion—should have an allergy consult before considering vaccination with MMR; encephalitis within 15 days of immunisation.
Exemptions
Children with congenital immune dysfunction, cancer (especially if receiving RT, chemotherapy or steroids) or known allergies to eggs or neomycin; pregnant women should deliver before MMR vaccination if not previously vaccinated.
Contraindications
Pregnancy, immunodeficiency states, therapeutic immunosuppression, acute febrile disease.

MMR vaccination

A protective active immunization against measles, mumps and rubella that should be routine for all children unless a strong medical reason contraindicates it. Concern was raised in 1998 that MMR vaccination could lead to an intestinal disorder that allows the absorption of otherwise non-permeable peptides capable of causing autism and other developmental problems. The evidence was reviewed by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization and no case was found for abandoning a vaccine of proved effectiveness and safety.