MMR (measles, mumps, rubella)

MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine

What is MMR?

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are viral infections. Without vaccination, the viruses pose risks of complications leading to serious illness. In severe cases, they can be fatal.

What is the MMR vaccine?

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella and helps to avert potentially dangerous complications. The MMR vaccine, which protects against all three of these viruses, is strongly recommended for all children by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC also recommends that adults who have not had a vaccination or the diseases be immunized with an MMR vaccine. In most of the United States, one must prove that their children are vaccinated before they can enter school.

What are common side effects of the MMR vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is considered safe and effective at preventing measles, mumps and rubella. Any vaccine can have potential side effects. Common side effects may include a sore arm, fever, mild rash, and temporary pain and stiffness in the joints. Most people who receive the MMR vaccine experience no serious side effects. Being vaccinated is a great deal safer than contracting measles, mumps or rubella.*

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/vaccines/mmr-vaccine.html

What is measles?

Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles starts with a cough, runny nose, red eyes and fever. Then a rash of tiny, red spots breaks out. It starts at the head and spreads to the rest of the body.*

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/measles/index.html

What is mumps?

Mumps is a contagious viral disease. It often starts with a fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness and loss of appetite. Then, most of those infected experience swelling of their salivary glands, resulting in puffy cheeks and a tender, swollen jaw.*

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/mumps/index.html

What is rubella?

Rubella is a contagious viral disease. Symptoms often include a low-grade fever, sore throat and a facial rash that spreads to the rest of the body. Rubella is especially a concern for pregnant women as it can cause severe birth defects and even miscarriage or stillbirth. The best protection against rubella is the MMR vaccine.*

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/rubella/pregnancy.html#:~:text=Vaccine%20Recommendations&text=Adult%20women%20of%20childbearing%20age,pregnant%2C%20contact%20your%20doctor%20immediately

Who should get the MMR vaccine and at what age?

• Children: Two doses; the first at 12 to 15 months of age, the second between 4 and 6 years old.

• Teens and adults: Should be up to date on their MMR vaccinations.

• Those travelling internationally or of child-bearing age or are health care professionals: Should be vaccinated if they have no probable evidence of immunity.

• Children 12 months through 12 years: May get the MMRV vaccine, which also helps protect against varicella (chickenpox). The Food and Drug Administration license limits the MMRV to this age group.*

*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/public/index.html

Where can I get the MMR vaccine?

Children, adolescents, adults and seniors can get an MMR vaccination administered by a certified immunizer at a CVS Pharmacy® location.

• At participating MinuteClinic locations: Administered by a trained medical provider, MMR vaccinations are available for children (18 months and older in most states), adults and seniors. You can view wait times online and schedule a visit or walk in anytime.

• At your nearby CVS Pharmacy: Vaccinations for children, adolescents, adults and seniors are available and administered by a certified immunizer. Age and state restrictions apply. No appointment necessary.

Like to learn more?

See All Vaccinations

Visit www.cdc.gov/vaccines

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccination: What Everyone Should Know https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/public/index.html. (Accessed 3 September 2019)

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine https://www.webmd.com/children/vaccines/measles-mumps-and-rubella-mmr-vaccine. (Accessed 3 September 2019)

Your Child's Immunizations: Measles, Mumps & Rubella Vaccine (MMR) https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/mmr-vaccine.html. (Accessed 3 September 2019)

*In select states. Visit MinuteClinic.com for details.

*Vaccinations vary by state based on regulations. Age restrictions apply. See Immunization Scheduler for details.