Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)

Disease and transmission

Measles, mumps, and rubella (also known as German measles) are highly infectious viral diseases that can lead to serious and life changing medical conditions, such as deafness partial sight loss and learning disabilities.

Usually spread by coughing and sneezing. Of the three, measles is most severe and complications can involve lungs or the brain.  Worldwide the World Health Organization estimates that around 400 people die from measles every day.

Symptoms

Measles - usually starts with cold-like symptoms, high temperature, blocked or runny nose, sneezing, coughing, red, sore, watery eyes then followed by a rash. Some people will have spots in their mouth.

Mumps the most recognisable symptom is the painful swelling on the sideS of face. Other symptoms include headache, joint pains and a high temperature.

Rubella - spotty rash starting on face or behind the ears, spreading to neck and body. Can take 2-3 weeks for rash to appear. Other symptoms - aching joints, a high temperature, coughs, sneezing , headaches, a sore throat and red, sore eyes.

Prevention

The MMR is a live vaccine and the completed course is 2 vaccinations at least 4 weeks apart and this can give lifelong protection. 

Historically the MR vaccine was available but only covered Measles and Rubella but not Mumps. and the measles coverage gained from this vaccination is not as high as the MMR vaccine. The MMR vaccine that was brought into the UK immunisation schedule in 1988 as a single dose and then from 1996 as being a two dose vaccination course.

There is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism – the Doctor whose study which claimed this to be the case which was published in 1998, has been struck off the medical register.

Treatment   

Seek medical advice if you notice a new rash or have symptoms. Call your GP as a phone call maybe more appropriate as viral disease can spread to others. Stay hydrated, rest and take paracetamol.