The measles vaccine is available in two versions, the triple-virus vaccine, which protects against 3 diseases caused by viruses: measles, mumps and rubella, or Viral Tetra, which still protects against chicken pox. It is part of the basic immunization schedule of the child and is administered as an injection of attenuated virus against measles.
This vaccine stimulates the individual's immune system, inducing the formation of antibodies against the measles virus. Thus, if the person is exposed to the virus, they already have the antibodies that will prevent the proliferation of the virus, leaving it totally protected. Learn how the immune system works.
What is it for
The measles vaccine is for all people as a form of prevention of the disease and not as a treatment. In addition, it also prevents diseases such as mumps and rubella, and in the case of Tetra Viral also protects from chicken pox.
Usually the first dose of the vaccine is given at 12 months and the second dose is between 15 and 24 months. However, all adolescents and adults who have not been vaccinated can take 1 dose of this vaccine at any stage of life without the need for booster.
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When and how to take
The measles vaccine is for injectable use and should be applied to the arm by the doctor or nurse after cleaning the site with alcohol, as follows:
- Children: The first dose should be given at 12 months and the second dose between 15 and 24 months of age. In the case of the tetravalent vaccine, which also protects against chickenpox, a single dose may be taken between 12 months and 5 years of age.
- Unvaccinated adolescents and adults: Take 1 single dose of vaccine at a private clinic or clinic.
Following this vaccination plan, the protective effect of the vaccine lasts a lifetime. See what the vaccines are and the age at which children should take all vaccines.
This vaccine can be taken at the same time as the chickenpox vaccine, but in different arms.
Side effects
The vaccine is usually well tolerated and the injection site is only sore and red. However, in some cases, symptoms such as irritability, swelling at the site of injection, fever, upper respiratory tract infection, swelling of the glands, parotid gland swelling, loss of appetite, crying, nervousness, insomnia, rhinitis, diarrhea, vomiting, slowness, indisposition and fatigue.
Who should not use
Measles vaccine is contraindicated in persons with known systemic hypersensitivity to neomycin or any of the other ingredients of the formula. In addition, the vaccine should not be administered to people with a weakened immune system, which includes patients with primary or secondary immunodeficiencies, and should be delayed in patients with severe acute febrile illness.
The vaccine should also not be given to pregnant women or women who wish to become pregnant, since it is not advisable to become pregnant within 3 months of taking the vaccine.
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