Measles, mumps, and rubella are highly contagious viruses spread through exposure to infected respiratory secretions. Since vaccination for these diseases began in the early 1960s, measles, mumps, and rubella outbreaks have become rare in the U.S. In the last few months eighty cases of measles were reported in several western and mid-western states. Most of these cases occurred in children and adults who had not been vaccinated. These numbers are concerning as one in every 250 cases of measles results in severe illness or death.

Worldwide outbreaks of these viruses result in the spread of these diseases into countries with high vaccination rates such as the U.S. The threat of spread from infected travelers from other parts of the globe underscores the need for adherence to vaccination recommendations.

To protect against the measles, mumps, and rubella viruses, a combination vaccine, known as the MMR is given in three doses starting at 12 months. The three vaccines were combined in the 80s to decrease the number of injections given to toddlers.

Measles symptoms generally do not appear until 10 days after exposure and include high fever, runny nose, cough, headache, aching, and swollen glands. A small red, spotted rash appears about 4 days after the onset of flu like symptoms. This rash usually starts on the face and then as the spots join together, spreads downward to the entire body. The illness lasts about 7 days. Serious complications including pneumonia and encephalitis can occur especially in children or adults whose immune system is suppressed.

Rubella is also a viral illness sometimes referred to as German measles. The symptoms appear two weeks after an exposure and include pink, 2-3mm, spots that last about 3 days. The rash begins on the face and spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs. Additional symptoms include fever, headaches, and enlarged lymph nodes. Pregnant women who contract rubella may develop Congenital Rubella Syndrome. Children born to mothers with this disorder are at increased risk for mental retardation, heart malformations, deafness, and liver, spleen, and bone marrow problems.

Mumps is a viral illness uncommon in children under the age of two. Symptoms of the disease usually do not appear until two to three weeks after exposure. Symptoms may include fever, swollen salivary glands and difficulty chewing. Complications are more common in adults and include meningitis, orchitis, and pancreatitis.

Tyelenol (acetaminophen, paracetamol) and fluids are the standard treatments given for the symptoms of uncomplicated cases of these viruses. Aspirin should not be used in children. People who have had measles, mumps, or rubella and most people who have been vaccinated are immune for life.

In recent years there has been increasing parental concerns regarding a possible link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Symptoms of autism are often first seen at around 12 month of age. This is the age at which the first MMR vaccination is administered. Though numerous studies in the U.S. and abroad have failed to demonstrate a causal relationship, studies are ongoing and parents must weight the risks versus the benefits of vaccinating their children against these deadly viruses.

Learn more about this author, Teresa Mustelier.
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