From the Guidelines
Yes, it is recommended for adults who are not immune to measles, mumps, or rubella to get the MMR vaccine. Adults born before 1957 are generally considered immune due to likely childhood exposure. For those born after 1957 who lack documentation of vaccination or immunity, one or two doses of MMR vaccine are recommended, depending on risk factors 1.
Key Groups to be Vaccinated
- Healthcare workers
- College students
- International travelers
- Women planning pregnancy should ensure they are protected. The standard adult dose is 0.5 mL administered subcutaneously, with a second dose given at least 28 days after the first if needed.
Contraindications
The vaccine is contraindicated during pregnancy and for severely immunocompromised individuals.
Mechanism of Action
Getting vaccinated protects not only yourself but also helps prevent the spread of these diseases to vulnerable populations. The MMR vaccine works by introducing weakened forms of the viruses, allowing your immune system to develop protective antibodies without causing the actual diseases.
Additional Considerations
Some adults may have received inactivated (killed) measles vaccine or measles vaccine of unknown type from 1963 to 1967, and should be revaccinated with 2 doses of MMR vaccine 1. Similarly, 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.
From the Research
MMR Vaccine for Adults
The MMR vaccine is recommended for adults who do not have immunization or contraindications. According to a study published in 2011 2, two doses of the MMR vaccine, separated by 4 weeks, are recommended for all adults.
Benefits of the MMR Vaccine
The MMR vaccine offers protection from illnesses that can have serious sequelae and substantial public health implications. Studies have shown that the vaccine is effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella in children and adults 3, 4, 5.
Safety of the MMR Vaccine
The MMR vaccine has been found to be safe and well-tolerated in adults. Common adverse events include transient injection site pain and fever 4. Serious adverse events are extremely rare, with only a few reported cases in clinical trials 4, 5.
Key Points
- Two doses of the MMR vaccine, separated by 4 weeks, are recommended for all adults who do not have immunization or contraindications 2.
- The MMR vaccine is effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella in children and adults 3, 4, 5.
- The vaccine is safe and well-tolerated in adults, with common adverse events including transient injection site pain and fever 4.
- Serious adverse events are extremely rare, with only a few reported cases in clinical trials 4, 5.
Considerations
- Adults who are unsure about their immunization status or have concerns about the MMR vaccine should consult with their healthcare provider.
- The MMR vaccine is an important tool in preventing the spread of measles, mumps, and rubella, and its use is supported by a large body of evidence 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.