MMR Vaccine: CDC Guidelines & Protection

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The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against measles, mumps, and rubella. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 to 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 to 6 years of age.

What is the MMR Vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects against three viral diseases:

  • Measles: A highly contagious disease that can cause fever, rash, cough, and runny nose. In severe cases, measles can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and death.
  • Mumps: A contagious disease that causes swelling of the salivary glands, resulting in puffy cheeks and a tender, swollen jaw. Mumps can also lead to complications such as meningitis, encephalitis, and deafness.
  • Rubella (German Measles): A viral infection that causes a mild fever and rash. However, rubella can be very dangerous for pregnant women, as it can cause serious birth defects in their babies.

CDC Recommendations for MMR Vaccine

The CDC recommends that all children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine:

  • First dose: 12 to 15 months of age
  • Second dose: 4 to 6 years of age

Adults who are not immune to measles, mumps, or rubella should also get the MMR vaccine. This includes:

  • People born in 1957 or later who have not had the MMR vaccine or have not had a blood test to show they are immune.
  • Healthcare workers
  • International travelers
  • College students

Why is the MMR Vaccine Important?

The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella. Before the MMR vaccine was introduced in 1963, measles was a common disease that caused hundreds of deaths each year in the United States. Thanks to the MMR vaccine, measles is now rare in the United States. However, measles outbreaks can still occur when people who are not vaccinated are exposed to the virus.

Mumps and rubella are also less common than they used to be, thanks to the MMR vaccine. However, these diseases can still cause serious complications, especially in pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems.

Is the MMR Vaccine Safe?

The MMR vaccine is very safe. Millions of people have received the MMR vaccine, and serious side effects are rare. The most common side effects are mild, such as fever, rash, and soreness at the injection site. More serious side effects, such as seizures and allergic reactions, are very rare.

The MMR vaccine does not cause autism. This has been proven by numerous scientific studies.

Where to Get the MMR Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is available from your doctor, local health department, and some pharmacies. If you are not sure whether you need the MMR vaccine, talk to your doctor.

Call to Action:

  • Schedule an appointment with your doctor to get the MMR vaccine today.
  • Visit the CDC website for more information about the MMR vaccine.