The MMR vaccine for adults is given to avoid or reduce the risk of getting measles (measles), mumps (mumps), and rubella. Giving this vaccine is important, especially for people who are at high risk of developing one of the three diseases.
Measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles) is a type of disease that is easily transmitted through the air. When people with these three diseases cough or sneeze, the phlegm or splashes of saliva that come out can be inhaled by anyone who is nearby.
If this happens, people who inhale splashes of phlegm or saliva can be infected. This is why adults also need to get the MMR vaccine.
Adults Who Need to Get the MMR Vaccine
Adults who have never or have no known vaccination history are recommended to receive at least 1 dose of the MMR vaccine.
Meanwhile, people who are at high risk of getting measles or mumps need to get 2 doses of the MMR vaccine 4 weeks apart. Conditions that put a person at risk for the disease are:
- Have you ever been exposed to measles or mumps?
- Live in an area where there is an outbreak of measles or mumps
- Live or have close contact with people with measles or mumps
- Will visit or travel to areas that are or have experienced an outbreak of measles or mumps
- Work as a health worker
Women who are planning to become pregnant are also recommended to undergo the MMR vaccine, at least 1 month before becoming pregnant, because of infection rubella in pregnant women at risk of causing fetal defects, even miscarriage.
MMR Vaccine Warning for Adults
Although the MMR vaccine for adults is important, it should not be administered haphazardly. The reason is, in some conditions, giving the MMR vaccine is not recommended or needs to be postponed if you have the following conditions:
- Is pregnant
- Have had a severe allergic reaction after being given the MMR vaccine
- Have an allergy to gelatin or neomycin
- Have a weakened immune system due to certain diseases, such as cancer or HIV/AIDS
- Are taking certain medications, such as radiation therapy, immunotherapy, taking corticosteroids, or chemotherapy
- Have a family history of immune system disorders
- Suffering from tuberculosis (TB)
- Got another vaccine in the last 4 weeks
- Have a low platelet count, for example due to a blood disorder
- Just had a blood transfusion
MMR Vaccine Side Effects
In general, the MMR vaccine for adults is harmless. However, some people may experience mild, temporary side effects after getting vaccinated.
Side effects that usually appear after the MMR vaccine include:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Swelling of the salivary glands
- Pain or rash at the injection site
- Joint pain
In addition to the above complaints, the MMR vaccine can also cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to the ingredients in this vaccine.
Therefore, if after the MMR vaccination you experience serious allergy symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, dizziness, fast heartbeat, itching, or weakness, consult a doctor immediately.
If you haven't had the MMR vaccine as an adult, talk to your doctor about a schedule for the vaccine. By taking the MMR vaccination, you are not only protected against measles, mumps, and rubella, but also prevent the transmission of these diseases to others.
