From the Guidelines
Adults born in 1957 or later who have no evidence of immunity to measles, mumps, and rubella should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, with a second dose recommended for certain groups such as college students, healthcare workers, and international travelers. The MMR vaccine is crucial in preventing the spread of these diseases, which can have severe complications, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems 1.
Key Groups for MMR Vaccination
- Adults born after 1957 with no evidence of immunity
- College students
- Healthcare workers
- International travelers
- Women of childbearing age who lack immunity to rubella
Special Considerations
- Persons vaccinated before 1979 with either killed mumps vaccine or mumps vaccine of unknown type who are at high risk for mumps infection should be considered for revaccination with 2 doses of MMR vaccine 1.
- Healthcare personnel born before 1957 who lack laboratory evidence of measles, mumps, and/or rubella immunity should be considered for vaccination with 2 doses of MMR vaccine 1.
Importance of Vaccination
The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella, and its administration is critical in maintaining herd immunity and preventing outbreaks of these diseases 1. By vaccinating the recommended groups, we can reduce the risk of morbidity, mortality, and long-term complications associated with these diseases, ultimately improving the quality of life for individuals and communities.
From the Research
Eligibility for MMR Vaccine Booster
The following individuals should receive a Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine booster:
- Adults who do not have immunization or contraindications, with two doses separated by 4 weeks recommended 2
- Individuals who do not achieve seroconversion after 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, although the need for a booster in this case is still being studied 3
- Children who have not received two doses of measles containing vaccine, as part of a catch-up program to prevent future epidemics 4
Special Considerations
- Individuals with egg allergy may still receive the MMR vaccine, but it should be done in a single dose under medical observation, or by gradually increased doses in cases of anaphylaxis after prior vaccination 5
- The MMR vaccine can be coadministered with other vaccines, such as diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis, hepatitis B, inactivated poliovirus, and Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccine, without altering immunogenicity 6
Vaccine Administration
- A two-dose schedule for MMR vaccination is recommended for all adults who do not have immunization or contraindications 2, 4
- The MMR vaccine can be administered as part of a combination vaccine, such as the live attenuated tetravalent vaccine against measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella zoster viruses (MMRV) 6