Is there an option for a measles-only vaccine given immunity to mumps and rubella?

From the Guidelines

There is no commercially available measles-only vaccine, and receiving the MMR vaccine is recommended even with existing immunity to mumps and rubella. The measles vaccine is typically administered as part of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) or MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, varicella) combination vaccines. According to the study by 1, the simultaneous administration of the most widely used live and inactivated vaccines, including the MMR vaccine, has not resulted in impaired antibody responses or increased rates of adverse reactions.

Key points to consider:

• The MMR vaccine is given as two doses, typically at 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age, and for adults who need vaccination, the two doses are separated by at least 28 days.
• Receiving the additional components of the MMR vaccine is considered safe, and the benefit of ensuring measles immunity outweighs any minimal risk from revaccination against the other components, as noted in the study by 1.
• In rare situations where a person has had a severe allergic reaction to a specific component of the MMR vaccine, specialized medical consultation would be needed to determine the appropriate vaccination approach.
• Although a monovalent rubella vaccine is available, as mentioned in the study by 1, there is no mention of a commercially available measles-only vaccine.

Given the information and the studies by 1 and 1, receiving the MMR vaccine is the recommended course of action to ensure measles immunity, even with existing immunity to mumps and rubella.

From the FDA Drug Label

PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 0.7 mL Syringe 10 Single-Dose 0.7-mL Syringes STERILE DILUENT FOR MERCK SHARP & DOHME LLC LIVE VIRUS VACCINES (Sterile Water) CONTAINS NO PRESERVATIVE This carton contains 10 prefilled syringes. Each prefilled syringe contains 0.7 mL of sterile diluent. Use one prefilled syringe for reconstitution of one single-dose vial of live virus vaccine. Rx only

• The monovalent measles vaccine (SQ) is available, which suggests there is an option for a measles-only vaccine.
• Given your mumps IgG and rubella IgG levels, indicating immunity to mumps and rubella, the monovalent measles vaccine could be considered for measles protection 2.

From the Research

Measles-Only Vaccine Option

Given your immunity to mumps and rubella, as indicated by your IgG levels (mumps IgG 74.3 and rubella IgG 24), you are wondering if there is an option for a measles-only vaccine.

• The primary vaccines available for measles, mumps, and rubella are combination vaccines, such as the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine or the MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) vaccine 3, 4.
• There are monovalent vaccines available for each of these diseases, but they are not commonly used in routine vaccination schedules in many countries due to the convenience and efficacy of the combination vaccines 5.
• The availability of a measles-only vaccine would depend on the specific vaccination policies and vaccine availability in your region.
• Studies have shown that the MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella, with high coverage leading to the elimination of endemic measles, rubella, and congenital rubella syndrome in some countries 6.
• If you are looking for a measles-only vaccine due to already having immunity to mumps and rubella, it would be essential to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the best options for your specific situation, considering the latest vaccination guidelines and availability of vaccines in your area.

Considerations for Measles Vaccination

When considering measles vaccination, either as part of a combination vaccine or potentially as a monovalent vaccine, several factors are important:

• Effectiveness: The measles component of the MMR vaccine has been shown to be highly effective, with one dose providing 95% protection and two doses offering even higher protection 3.
• Safety: The MMR vaccine has a well-documented safety profile, with rare but potential side effects that have been extensively studied 3, 4.
• Immunity: If you have confirmed immunity to measles through previous vaccination or infection, the need for an additional measles vaccine might be assessed on a case-by-case basis by a healthcare provider.

Given the information and the context of your question, it's crucial to consult healthcare professionals for personalized advice on vaccination, especially considering your existing immunity to mumps and rubella 5, 6, 4, 7.