One essential vaccine for older adults is the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The MMR vaccine protects against three highly contagious diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. Measles can cause severe complications such as pneumonia and brain inflammation. Mumps can lead to painful swelling of the salivary glands and even affect the brain or reproductive organs.
Not getting vaccinated puts older adults at risk of contracting these diseases, which can lead to serious health complications. In India, where measles outbreaks still occur, unvaccinated individuals are particularly vulnerable. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles cases have been on the rise globally, underscoring the importance of vaccination.
Getting the MMR vaccine is simple and can be done at any healthcare facility. It’s usually administered as a single injection, with a second dose recommended for those who haven’t been previously vaccinated. Following the recommended vaccination schedule ensures optimal protection against these diseases.
While the MMR vaccine is generally safe, it may cause some mild side effects such as soreness at the injection site, fever, or mild rash. Serious side effects are rare and outweighed by the benefits of vaccination, which include preventing severe illness and potential complications.
References: World Health Organization (WHO). (2022). Measles: Fact sheet. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/measles