Measles Mumps Rubella Vaccine

Subject – Governance

Context – 3 infants die after MMR vaccination in Karnataka

Concept –

The MMR vaccine is a vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles).
After two doses, 97% of people are protected against measles, 88% against mumps, and at least 97% against rubella.
The vaccine is also recommended for those who do not have evidence of immunity, those with well-controlled HIV/AIDS, and within 72 hours of exposure to measles among those who are incompletely immunized.
It is given by injection.

Measles

It is a highly contagious viral disease and is a cause of death among young children globally.
It is particularly dangerous for children from the economically weaker background, as it attacks malnourished children and those with reduced immunity.
It can cause serious complications, including blindness, encephalitis, severe diarrhoea, ear infection and pneumonia.

Rubella

It is also called German Measles.
Rubella is a contagious, generally mild viral infection that occurs most often in children and young adults.
Rubella infection in pregnant women may cause death or congenital defects known as Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS) which causes irreversible birth defects.

Mumps

Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a Paramyxovirus. This infectious disease primarily affects the salivary glands, located below the ears. It is also called as the parotid glands, which are mainly responsible for the production of saliva.
Mumps disease is usually transmitted through the infected saliva, nasal secretions or respiratory droplets, and close contact with the infected person.
This viral infection is commonly seen in children and is minor but in adults it can be complicated.
Vaccination is the only way to prevent mumps.