The measles vaccine is available in two versions, the triple-viral vaccine, which protects against 3 diseases caused by viruses: measles, mumps and rubella, or Tetra Viral, which also protects against chicken pox. It is part of the child's basic vaccination schedule and is administered as an injection, using attenuated measles viruses.
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, he already has the antibodies that will prevent the proliferation of the viruses, leaving him totally protected. Learn how the immune system works.
What is it for
The measles vaccine is for everyone as a way of preventing 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 it also protects against chicken pox.
Usually the first dose of the vaccine is given at 12 months and the second dose 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 reinforcement.
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When and how to take
The measles vaccine is for injection and should be applied to the arm by the doctor or nurse after cleaning the area with alcohol, as follows:
- Children: The first dose should be administered at 12 months and the second between 15 and 24 months of age. In the case of the tetravalent vaccine, which also protects against chicken pox, a single dose can be taken between 12 months and 5 years of age. Adolescents and unvaccinated adults: Take 1 single dose of the vaccine at a private health clinic or clinic.
After following this vaccination plan, the protective effect of the vaccine lasts for a lifetime. See what are the vaccines and the age at which children should get all vaccines.
This vaccine can be taken at the same time as the chickenpox vaccine, but in different arms.
Side effects
The vaccine is generally well tolerated and the injection area is just painful and red. However, in some cases, after application of the vaccine, symptoms such as irritability, swelling at the injection site, fever, upper respiratory tract infection, swelling of the tongue, swelling of the parotid gland, loss of appetite, crying, nervousness, insomnia, rhinitis, diarrhea, vomiting, slowness, indisposition and tiredness.
Who should not use
Measles vaccine is contraindicated in people with known systemic hypersensitivity to neomycin or any other component of the formula. In addition, the vaccine should not be administered to people with weakened immune systems, which include patients with primary or secondary immunodeficiencies, and should be postponed in patients with severe acute febrile illness.
The vaccine should also not be administered to pregnant women or women who intend to become pregnant, as it is not advisable to become pregnant within 3 months of taking the vaccine.
Watch the following video and learn how to identify measles symptoms and prevent transmission:
