Measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR)

This is a live‑attenuated vaccine given by injection into the muscle. It contains weakened forms of the measles, mumps, and rubella viruses. The purpose of the vaccine in the study is to protect children from these three infections and to allow researchers to see how well the immune system remembers the protection several years later. Children in the trial received this vaccine at 6 months of age, and the study later measured the level of antibodies they produced to see how long the protection lasts.

Measles – Measles is a contagious viral infection that begins with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes. After a few days a red rash appears, starting on the face and spreading downward. The rash typically lasts about a week before fading. Symptoms usually develop 10‑14 days after exposure and then improve gradually.
Mumps – Mumps is a viral illness that primarily affects the salivary glands. It starts with fever, headache, and muscle aches, followed by swelling of one or both cheeks. The swelling can last several days and then slowly reduces. The illness usually resolves on its own within a week or two.
Rubella – Rubella, also known as German measles, is a mild viral infection. It begins with a low fever and a pink rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body. The rash typically lasts three to four days. Symptoms appear about two weeks after exposure and then improve without complications.