MMR VaccineNew York, NY
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella and is part of the required vaccinations given to most children in the United States. Getting vaccinated against these three dangerous viral diseases is crucial for personal and public health. Both children and adults should be vaccinated, especially those at higher risk.
Dr. Marina Gafanovich administers the MMR vaccine to patients in her Upper East Side Manhattan office. Our team can help make sure you and your family are protected. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 212-548-3263 today.
What is the MMR Vaccine
A vaccine works by triggering the body to buildup immunity to a disease. The MMR vaccine is a combined shot. It contains vaccines for the viral diseases measles, mumps, and rubella, hence the MMR vaccine.
This vaccine is typically delivered to children in the United States in two doses, one between the ages of 12 and 15 months and the second between ages 4 and 6 years. However, children can get the second dose earlier as long as it is at least 28 days after the first. Most states require children have this vaccination before entering school.
What the MMR Vaccine Protects Against
Measles, mumps, and rubella are all highly contagious diseases that can spread easily among unvaccinated people. Often, they spread through person-to-person contact via the droplets of coughs and sneezes from infected people. All three illnesses have the potential to do lasting damage and, in some cases, be fatal. Here is an overview of the three provided by WebMD:
- Measles. Characterized by a red pinpoint rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body, symptoms of measles include pinkeye, fever, cough, and a runny nose. If it infects the lungs, it can cause pneumonia. Seizures and brain damage can result from the disease in older children.
- Mumps. Before the vaccine, mumps was the most common cause of meningitis and acquired deafness in the United States. Mumps causes swelling in the glands below the ears and can lead to infertility in men.
- Rubella. Symptoms include a mild rash, swelling of the glands behind the ears, fever, and swelling of the small joints. Though most children recover with no lasting issues, rubella can be devastating to the fetus for pregnant women. If infection happens in the first trimester, the child has a 20% chance of serious congenital disabilities, including blindness, deafness, a heart defect, or intellectual disabilities.
Benefits of The MMR Vaccine
Thanks to the MMR vaccine and regular childhood vaccinations, measles, mumps, and rubella have been largely eliminated from the United States. Those who receive the vaccine according to the U.S schedule are most likely protected for life. The vaccine protects children and adults from disability or death and pregnant women from miscarriage or serious harm to the fetus.
Another advantage is the nature of the vaccine. Due to being a combined vaccine, a person, usually a child, has to endure fewer injections to get the desired immunity.
Who Should Get the MMR Vaccine
The vaccine is recommended as a routine vaccine for children and those who did not get vaccinated as children and are not able to show evidence of immunity. This may include the following:
- Adults born in 1957 or later
- Healthcare workers
- International travelers
- Students entering college or university
- Those immigrating to the U.S.
The vaccine should not be given to certain individuals, such as those who are allergic and women who are currently pregnant. Women should avoid becoming pregnant until one month after receiving the vaccine. Those who are ill and certain immunocompromised individuals should not receive the vaccine. Our team will evaluate each patient’s eligibility for the vaccine on a case-by-case basis.
Risks and Side Effects
The MMR vaccine is safe and effective when delivered as directed by a qualified healthcare professional. Most side effects do not last long and are mild. A patient may experience soreness at the injection site for a few days. Other mild side effects can include fever, rash and pain, and joint stiffness (mostly in women). Other side effects, such as cheek or neck swelling and seizures in certain individuals, may occur, but these are rare.
Severe adverse reactions are even rarer. However, signs of one include hives, swelling of the neck and face, trouble breathing, rapid heart rate, and dizziness. If one shows these signs of a severe reaction, call 911 right away or take them to the nearest hospital.
Schedule a Visit Today
Our team offers the MMR vaccine in our Upper East Side Manhattan office. We can help determine your eligibility and make sure you are protected. Call our office at 212-548-3263 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About MMR Vaccine
Q. Does the MMR vaccine lead to autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
A. There is no connection between the MMR vaccine and ASD. In fact, studies have shown there is no link between any vaccine and the disorder. The MMR vaccine is safe if administered by a qualified healthcare professional.
Q. Will my insurance cover the MMR vaccine?
A. Your insurance will likely cover the MMR vaccine. However, there may be specific rules you need to follow, such as going to an in-network provider. We always recommend patients check directly with their insurance provider for details.
Q. How well does the MMR vaccine work?
A. While the effectiveness of the vaccine varies, the MMR vaccine is highly effective. According to the CDC, the two recommended doses of the vaccine are 97% effective against measles and rubella and 88% effective against mumps. Also, it is important to note that widespread vaccination in a population means your chances of getting these diseases are reduced since you are not likely to be exposed to them.
Q. What if I have already been exposed to measles, mumps, or rubella?
A. If you have been exposed and do not already have immunity, call our office, and we can advise you. Getting the vaccine after being exposed is not harmful and may help. Getting the vaccine within 72 hours of exposure may offer you some protection.
Q. How long does the MMR vaccine last?
A. For those who received the two doses recommended for children, the protection is probably lifelong. However, if you are not sure if you have been vaccinated or had both doses, we suggest you check with your doctor. There is a blood test to check for immunity.
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