Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
What is Measles?
Measles is a disease caused by measles virus. Common symptoms include fever, cough, and rash.
20% of unvaccinated people who get measles need to be hospitalized. Measles can also cause pneumonia and encephalitis.
Two doses of the vaccine prevents 97% of measles infection, and the 3% of people who can still get infected have milder symptoms.
From 2000 to 2015, measles vaccination saved more than 20 million lives worldwide.
What is Mumps?
Mumps is a disease caused by mumps virus.
Common symptoms include swollen cheeks and jaw, fever, loss of appetite, and muscle aches.
Two doses of the vaccine prevent approximately 88% of mumps infections. Infections in vaccinated people usually have much milder symptoms.
What is Rubella?
Rubella is a disease caused by rubella virus.
Common symptoms include a rash, fever, headache, cough, and pink eye
If pregnant women get rubella it can cause miscarriages and birth defects.
2 doses of the vaccine provide almost 100% immunity against rubella infections.
What's the difference between them?
Both vaccines provide protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, but MMRV also protects against varicella (chickenpox).
Relevant Terms
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Encephalitis: brain swelling
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Pneumonia: an infection in the lungs that causes air sacs to fill with fluid