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About the MMR Vaccine at Abbeydale Pharmacy in Sheffield
Welcome to Abbeydale Pharmacy, your trusted healthcare provider in Sheffield. Located at 713 Abbeydale Road, S7 2BE, we offer the MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine to protect you from these highly contagious viral infections. Here, we provide detailed information about the MMR vaccine, its importance, and symptoms to be aware of.
What is MMR?
Measles, mumps and rubella are viral infections which can be prevented by having the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Measles, mumps and rubella diseases remain widespread in all parts of the world but are most common in Asia, Africa and South America. Outbreaks occur in Europe, North America and Australia/New Zealand where populations are unvaccinated or under-vaccinated.
All three viruses are caught by breathing in infected droplets released when someone with one of the viruses coughs or sneezes, or picked up from surfaces and transferred into your nose and mouth from your hands.
MMR is a combined vaccine that protects against three viral infections:
Measles: A highly contagious viral infection characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive rash.
Mumps: A viral infection known for swollen salivary glands, fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue.
Rubella (German Measles): A mild viral infection that can cause a rash, mild fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Importance of the MMR Vaccine
The MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect yourself from these serious viral infections, which can lead to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, deafness, and even death. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of contracting these diseases and the serious health problems they can cause.
Symptoms of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
Measles Symptoms:
Symptoms typically last around 7 to 10 days. The infection can be complicated by ear and chest infection, seizures, blindness and brain infection.
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Mumps Symptoms:
Symptoms usually last 1 to 2 weeks. The infection can be complicated by swelling of the testicles or ovaries, hearing loss and meningitis.
Swollen, painful salivary glands (parotitis)
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Rubella Symptoms:
Symptoms of rubella usually last for 7 to 10 days and include:
Mild fever
Headache
Stuffy or runny nose
Red rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body
Swollen lymph nodes
aching and painful joints
Rubella in pregnancy can be serious, particularly if caught in early pregnancy. It can cause loss of the baby (miscarriage) or serious problems after the baby is born with their sight, hearing, heart or brain.
Who Should Get the MMR Vaccine?
Children: The MMR vaccine is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule, typically given at 12-15 months and again at 4-6 years.
Adults: Those who have not been vaccinated or require booster doses for continued protection.
Travelers: Individuals traveling to areas where these diseases are prevalent or outbreaks are occurring.
Vaccine Schedule
The MMR vaccine is typically administered in two doses:
First Dose: Given at 12-15 months of age.
Second Dose: Given at 4-6 years of age.
For adults who have not been previously vaccinated, two doses are recommended, with the second dose given at least 28 days after the first dose.
MMR is the vaccine used in the UK. It is a combined vaccine that protects against measles, mumps and rubella.
Two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are needed in your life time to protect you against all three viruses.
Children:
MMR vaccine is usually given to babies and young children as part of the UK vaccination schedule.
the first dose is usually given around 12 to 13 months of age
the second dose is usually given around 3.5 to 4 years old
If your baby has not yet received the MMR vaccine, talk to your local health board vaccination services (Scotland), General Practice (rest of UK) or a travel health professional as your baby may still be able to have the MMR vaccine if you are travelling to an area considered to have a high risk of exposure to measles, mumps and/or rubella.
Adults:
Two doses of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine are needed in your life time to protect you against all three viruses.
If you were previously infected (usually when you were a child) with either measles, mumps or rubella illness you should have lifelong immunity against that particular disease.
Check with your General Practice to ensure you have received two doses of MMR vaccination before travelling.
If you were born before 1990, you are unlikely to be fully vaccinated against mumps.
If you have not had 2 doses of MMR vaccine, you should consider being vaccinated before travel.
your local health board vaccination services (Scotland) or General Practice (rest of UK) should be able to advise where you can get MMR vaccine
Safety and Side Effects
The MMR vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated. Common side effects may include redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site, fever, and mild rash. Serious side effects are rare.
Get Vaccinated at Abbeydale Pharmacy in Sheffield
For residents of Sheffield, Abbeydale Pharmacy at 713 Abbeydale Road, S7 2BE, is your convenient destination for receiving the MMR vaccine. Our experienced and friendly staff are here to provide you with the highest standard of care, ensuring you are well-protected.
Contact Us
For more detailed information, personalized recommendations, and to schedule your MMR vaccination, please consult with our healthcare providers at Abbeydale Pharmacy. We are here to support you in making informed decisions about your health.
Explore our other resources and educational materials available on our website to learn more about the MMR vaccine and the benefits of vaccination. Your health and safety are our top priorities. Visit Abbeydale Pharmacy in Sheffield for your MMR vaccine today.
Additional Services
At Abbeydale Pharmacy in Sheffield, we also offer a comprehensive range of vaccines and operate a full travel clinic to meet all your healthcare needs. Ensure you are fully protected by visiting us for expert advice and vaccinations tailored to your requirements.