Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious diseases transmitted through contact or inhalation of respiratory droplets from infected individuals. They can be prevented by receiving the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
Who is at risk of severe Hib disease?
Severe Hib disease is commonly found in young children, especially those under 2 years old, immunocompromised individuals, those without a spleen, people with chronic diseases, and the elderly. Hib bacteria reside in the human respiratory tract and spread from person to person through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes and there is direct contact with respiratory secretions.
How dangerous are measles, mumps, and rubella?
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- Measles is caused by the measles virus, leading to high fever, cough, red eyes, and rash. Some cases may develop severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis.
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- Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, causing fever and inflammation of the salivary glands. Some cases may have complications such as orchitis, oophoritis, and meningitis.
- Rubella is caused by the rubella virus, causing fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. If a pregnant woman is infected, it may cause fetal death or congenital disabilities.
Combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine
Made from live but weakened measles, mumps, and rubella viruses, it does not cause disease in individuals with normal immune systems.
Who “should” receive the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine?
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- All healthy Thai children, with the first dose given at 9-12 months of age and a booster dose at 2½ to 4 years old.
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- All healthy women of reproductive age who have never had rubella or received this vaccine before.
- Additionally, vaccination may be considered for adolescents and adults without a history of the disease or vaccination, especially healthcare workers, conscripts, students planning to study abroad in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, at both secondary and university levels. The vaccine should be administered subcutaneously twice, at least one month apart.
Who “should avoid” receiving the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine?
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- Those who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine.
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- Allergic to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin.
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- Pregnant women.
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- Immunocompromised individuals, such as those infected with HIV.
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- Cancer patients or those undergoing cancer treatment, whether by radiation or chemotherapy.
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- Those taking medications that affect the immune system, such as steroids.
- Individuals who have received blood, blood components, or immunoglobulin may receive the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine but must consult a doctor beforehand due to the required interval before vaccination. If acutely ill with fever, vaccination should be postponed until recovery. Mild colds without fever do not contraindicate vaccination.
Possible side effects after receiving the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine
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- Severe allergic reactions may occur, but these are very rare. Most people who receive the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine experience no problems.
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- Common reactions after vaccination include pain, swelling, and redness at the injection site, mild fever, joint pain, rash, and swollen lymph nodes occurring 6-12 days after vaccination. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve within 2-3 days. Joint pain may last 1-3 weeks. Severe reactions are very rare.
- If there is pain, swelling, or redness at the injection site, cold compresses can be applied. For mild fever, antipyretics can be taken. If other unusual symptoms occur, consult a doctor.
Note:
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- Women who receive the combined measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine should use contraception for at least 1 month after vaccination.
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- The vaccine may be considered for breastfeeding women.
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- Even those with a history of egg allergy can receive this vaccine but must inform the doctor and be closely monitored after vaccination.
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- If in doubt, consult a doctor.
