Content
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. This vaccine 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.
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.
Generally, the first dose of the vaccine is administered 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.
Understand why measles happens, how to prevent it and other common doubts.
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 vaccine's protective effect lasts a lifetime. This vaccine can be taken at the same time as the chickenpox vaccine, but in different arms.
Check which vaccines are mandatory in your child's vaccination schedule.
Possible 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 tongues, swelling of the parotid gland, loss of appetite, crying, nervousness, insomnia, rhinitis, diarrhea, vomiting, slowness, indisposition and tiredness.
Who should not take
The 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 after taking the vaccine.
Watch the following video and learn to identify measles symptoms and prevent transmission: