The MMR Vaccine: Protecting You & Your Family Against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella at AFC Urgent Care in the Philadelphia Metro Area

The MMR vaccine is crucial and highly effective in protecting individuals and communities from measles, mumps, and rubella. These three diseases, though much less common in the U.S. due to widespread vaccination efforts, can still pose serious health risks if not adequately controlled. Thanks to high immunization rates, outbreaks are rare, and fully vaccinated people enjoy strong immunity for many years. Typically, immunity lasts for two decades before a booster may be necessary. Sometimes, healthcare professionals recommend immunity checks, especially for individuals entering college, pregnancy, or healthcare professions.

MMR Vaccine Schedule

Children:

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) requires that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine:

• The first dose should be administered at 12-15 months.
• The second dose is given between four and six years of age.

For children between one and twelve years old, the MMR vaccine may be combined with the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine in a single shot, known as the MMRV vaccine. This newer version of the MMR vaccine simplifies immunization schedules while maintaining effectiveness.

Young Children Traveling Overseas: If a child between six and eleven months old travels outside the U.S., they should receive an MMR vaccine dose as a precaution. This will protect them from the increased risk of exposure to measles in certain areas of the world.

School and Childcare Requirements: All states require children to be vaccinated before attending childcare facilities and schools. These health laws help maintain a high vaccination coverage rate. This keeps people who may not be healthy enough for the vaccine safe by keeping preventable diseases at bay. However, certain medical or religious exemptions may be granted based on state regulations.

The effectiveness of the MMR vaccine is well-documented:

• 95% of children vaccinated at 12 months or older develop immunity after the first dose.
• 99% of children achieve long-term immunity after receiving both doses.

Older Children and Adults:

For those who missed childhood vaccinations, one or two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended based on individual immunity status, as determined by a healthcare provider.

Mumps Outbreaks: In situations where a mumps outbreak occurs, a third dose of the MMR vaccine may be recommended to boost immunity and curb the spread of the virus.

College Students: Many colleges require proof of MMR vaccination before students can begin classes. If you or your child is heading to college, check the school’s vaccination policies in advance.

Getting Vaccinated at AFC Urgent Care in the Philadelphia Metro Area

Patients can receive their MMR vaccine at AFC Urgent Care. Before vaccination, some individuals may need to postpone their MMR shot due to specific health conditions:

• Severe allergic reactions to vaccine components.
• Pregnancy or possible pregnancy.
• Weakened immune system due to medication or illness.
• Family history of congenital immune disorders.
• Recent blood transfusions or tuberculosis treatment.
• Receipt of another vaccine in the past four weeks.

Vaccination can proceed as usual for mild illnesses such as colds. However, individuals with moderate or severe colds or illnesses should recover before getting the vaccine.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that initially infects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat before spreading throughout the body. It is characterized by a high fever, cough, watery red eyes, congestion, and a distinctive rash.

Possible Complications of Measles:

• Severe fever
• Ear infections
• Diarrhea
• Pneumonia
• Seizures
• Brain damage
• Death (in severe cases)

Who is Most at Risk?

• Children under five years old
• Adults over 20 years old
• Pregnant women
• Immunocompromised individuals

How Does Measles Spread?

Measles is airborne and spreads through coughing and sneezing. A person can become infected by breathing in the virus or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus remains active for up to two hours in the air or on surfaces.

Is Measles Contagious?

Yes, measles is highly contagious. 90% of unvaccinated people exposed to an infected person will contract the virus. The disease spreads four days before and after the rash appears.

How is Measles Prevented?

The best protection against measles is full immunization with the MMR vaccine.

What is Mumps?

Mumps is a viral infection that causes a swollen jaw and puffy cheeks due to inflammation of the salivary glands.

How Does Mumps Spread?

Mumps spreads through direct contact with saliva and respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils.

Symptoms of Mumps:

• Swollen salivary glands
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite

Prevention & Treatment: Two doses of the MMR vaccine reduce the risk of mumps by 88%. If an outbreak occurs, a third dose may be recommended.

What is Rubella?

Rubella, or German measles, is a viral infection that causes a mild red rash and flu-like symptoms. It was eliminated in the U.S. in 2004 but still exists in other parts of the world.

Why is Rubella Dangerous? Rubella is especially dangerous for pregnant women. If a woman contracts rubella during pregnancy, her baby is at risk for Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), which can cause:

• Deafness
• Heart defects
• Intellectual disabilities
• Liver and spleen damage
• Glaucoma

How is Rubella Spread?

Rubella spreads through coughing and sneezing or from mother to baby during pregnancy. It is highly contagious even if the infected person shows no symptoms.

How is Rubella Prevented?

Vaccination is the best prevention. Women should ensure their MMR vaccine series is complete before pregnancy.

Why is the MMR Vaccine is important?

The MMR vaccine provides critical protection against three serious diseases. Since the introduction of the MMR vaccine, the public has seen a dramatic reduction in cases of measles, mumps, and rubella. It has prevented outbreaks and saved lives. Vaccination efforts must be maintained to promote herd immunity and protect vulnerable populations in the Philadelphia Metro area. By vaccinating yourself and your loved ones, you are helping create and promote a safer, healthier community while protecting yourself from several preventable diseases that potentially have severe health consequences.

The experienced staff and providers at your local AFC Urgent Care Center are here to answer any questions you may have about the MMR Vaccine. Stop by today or call!