Measles, Mumps & Rubella Vaccine (MMR, Priorix)

Last updated 20.09.12

Definition

- Live attenuated Rubella virus

Features

- Main intent of Rubella vaccination is to prevent congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) in pregnancy

- Single dose produces antibody response in >95%

- Level of antibodies produced are lower than natural infection

- Antibodies persist for 16yrs+

- Safe in breast feeding

Indictations

- Part of routine vaccination in Australia

- Given at 12months old & 4yrs

- Measles

- Mumps

- Rubella

- Non-immune women of child bearing age

- Given postpartum in mothers with low to no immunity in pregnancy

Contraindictations

- Pregnancy

Precautions

- Women should not become pregnant for 28days+

Side Effects

- Usually 1-3 weeks post vaccination

- Fever, sore throat

- Lymphadenopathy

- Rash

- Arthralgia, arthritis

Dose

- 0.5ml S/C or IM (1 ampule)

- Can be given simultaneously w other vaccines but if not concurrently must wait 4 weeks

- Routinely x2 doses 4 weeks+ apart in adults

- If seroconverts after x1 dose no further dose required

- If poor seroconversion after x2 doses further doses unlikely to be effective

References

The Australian Immunisaton Handbook, 9th Edition, 26/03/2008