Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) vaccine, as the name suggests is a combined vaccine given to protect against the measles, mumps, rubella and the health complications that result from these diseases. Children who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine following the U.S. vaccination schedule are expected to have lifelong protection against these health problems.
MEASLES
Measles or Rubeola is an infection caused by a virus from the paramyxovirus family. Once infected, it invades the hosts’ cells and uses them to complete its life cycle. This virus initially causes infections in the respiratory tract. Over time it spreads to other parts of the body in the blood. Currently there are roughly 24 genetic types of measles known, however, only six are prevalent. You can receive the MMR vaccine to protect yourself from getting the measles at any of the healthcare clinics in Nashville.
Symptoms of Measles
Different symptoms of measles appear at different points of time
7-14 days after measles infection
The general symptoms at this stage are
- High fever may be more than 104°F
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Red and watery eyes
2-3 days after the appearance of symptoms
At this stage, the affected person might notice tiny white spots called Koplik spots inside their mouth
3-5 days after the beginning of symptoms
At this phase, the affected person will experience a breakout of rashes that appears as flat red spots on the face and gradually spreads out to other parts of the body such as neck, arms, legs, and feet. The rash may be accompanied by a high fever of over 104°F.
MUMPS
Mumps is caused by the mumps virus that normally effects the upper respiratory tract. It is contagious and spreads through coughs or sneezes. Mumps can lead to serious health complications such as meningitis, and/or swelling and pain in the ovaries or testicles. You should get yourself vaccinated with the MMR vaccine at any of the medical clinics in Nashville, TN for protection against the mumps.
Symptoms of Mumps
The most common and primary symptom of Mumps is swelling of salivary glands accompanied by pain either on one side or both sides of the face. The other symptoms maybe
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Aches in the muscles
- Fatigue
- Pain experienced while swallowing or chewing
RUBELLA
Also known as the “German measles” is also a virus. This disease spreads also spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is generally less aggressive in children. Pregnant woman can have more complications such as a miscarriage or a child with birth defects. Stay protected from Rubella, get your required dose of MMR vaccination at a family healthcare clinic at Nashville near you.
Symptoms of Rubella
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Mild fever
- Red eyes
- Headache
- Aching joints
- Pink rash that appears on the face and spreads to the torso, arms, and legs
Who should get the MMR Vaccine?
The MMR vaccine is given to people of all ages to protect them against the measles, mumps, and rubella.
Children
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend every child should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine. The first dose should be given between the ages of 12 and 15 months and the second dose between the ages of 4 and 6 years. Children can receive their MMR vaccination shots and other vaccination services in Nashville, TN.
The MMR vaccine is administered to children later in life than other vaccines because antibodies from the mother help protect newborns from disease and cause the MMR vaccine to be less effective until after the first year.
Adolescents
Adolescents who did not receive a MMR vaccine during their childhood, should receive two doses no closer than 28 days apart. If the adolescent has already received one dose earlier in their childhood, a second dose is still suggested.
Adults
Adults who do not have any documentation about previously having a MMR vaccination should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Besides, adults who are in a high risk area of measles, mumps or Rubella, should get two doses, again separated by 28 days. Your Nashville vaccination center like Clinica Hispana La Paz in Nashville, TN offers MMR vaccinations to adults, children, and adolescents.
International Travelers
Any person traveling internationally needs to get a MMR vaccination shot. Including:
- Infants from 6 through 11 months should receive at least a dose of this vaccine
- Infants, who have already received one dose of MMR vaccine before their 1st birthday should get two more doses (1 at the age 12 months through 15 months and the next dose after at least 28 days)
- Children older than 12 months should receive two doses separated by at least 28 days.
- Adolescents and adults, 2 doses at least 28 days apart.