Why Does the Government Recommend Vaccination for Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR)?
Measles, mumps and rubella are diseases that, while relatively rare, can have severe consequences. Mild cases of each disease can cause symptoms similar to those associated with the flu, but potential complications include pneumonia, brain damage, encephalitis, meningitis and even death. Infants and children are particularly at risk for these and other serious complications.
Measles, mumps and rubella are referred to collectively as “MMR” due to the fact that they are a combination of vaccines that have been proven to effectively prevent all three diseases. While instances of MMR are relatively low (less than 40,000 cases per year combined), due to the potential risks of infection, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that most individuals be vaccinated against MMR.
About MMR Vaccination
MMR vaccines are generally administered in two doses. For children, the first dose is typically administered between 12 and 15 months of age, with the second dose following between the ages of four and six. The CDC also recommends MMR vaccination for children under one year old if they will be traveling internationally.
For adults, the CDC suggests getting at least one dose of the vaccine unless (i) they have already been vaccinated, or (ii) they have already had all three diseases. There are certain exceptions, such as for women who are pregnant, those who are sick, and those who have had a serious allergic reaction to a prior dose of any vaccination for MMR.
Approved MMR Vaccines in the United States
There are currently two FDA-approved vaccines for measles, mumps and rubella. These are:
- M-M-R II – M-M-R II is administered by injection, and is approved only for individuals 12 months of age and older. It has been in use in the United States since 1971.
- ProQuad – Also administered by injection, ProQuad is used to vaccinate against chickenpox (varicella) in addition to vaccinating against MMR. As a result, it is also known as the “MMRV” vaccine. ProQuad received FDA approval in 2005 and is used for children between one and 12 years of age.
What are the Risks Associated with MMR Vaccines?
The U.S. Library of Medicine notes a number of risks associated vaccinations for MMR. In addition to these concerns, individuals who receive injections of M-M-R II and ProQuad are also at risk for shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (known as “SIRVA”).
Shoulder injury related to vaccine administration is not caused by the vaccines itself, but rather by improper administration of a vaccine. For example, administering an injection too high on the shoulder or too low on the arm can lead to a variety of extremely painful – and sometimes life-altering – injuries. Individuals who suffer from SIRVA after being vaccinated with M-M-R II or ProQuad may be entitled to compensation from the federal government. If you or someone you love has suffered a vaccine-related shoulder injury, contact the Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery to learn more.
Contact the Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery about Your MMR Vaccine Shoulder Injury
The Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery provides no-cost assistance for individuals suffering from vaccine-related shoulder injuries. The Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery represents individuals in claims arising under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) nationwide.
To find out if you may be entitled to recover your medical expenses and other losses under the VICP, contact a qualified vaccine attorney at the Center for Vaccine Shoulder Pain Recovery for an evaluation today.