MMR - Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccination, side effects and reactions

MMR has put forward strong arguments in favour of immunisation but finds it hard to allay the emotional worries that parents are subjected to when making the choice of whether or not to have their child immunised. MMR vaccine is offered routinely at around 14 months, with a booster dose at around four years. The government able to make a choice, as undoubtedly there are risks and possible side-effects with any injection.

Against the MMR vaccine

• These illnesses have been around for many years and in developed countries are rarely serious or have complications.
• There are grave concerns that a child might have a reaction at the time of the injection (anaphylaxis) and collapse shortly afterwards.
• The site of injection may be painful and sometimes there is fever and a mild rash or dose of one of the illnesses may follow.
• There is some evidence that the immunity gained from getting the disease naturally is better than that given artificially.
• There may be a risk of high fever and convulsions, which can possibly cause brain damage.
• Some scientists have suggested there is a link between the MMR immunisation and Crohn's disease and autism, a mental disorder in which children become self absorbed and withdrawn. Other scientists dispute this.

MMR vaccine