Rubella

In the Yukon, the routine immunization schedule for children includes:

• the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine; and 
• the measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (MMRV) vaccine.
   

These vaccines are given by injection and protect against: 

• measles;
• mumps;
• rubella; and 
• varicella, also known as chickenpox (MMRV only). 
   

Both vaccines are live, meaning they contain weakened forms of the viruses that cannot cause disease in healthy people. 

The MMR and MMRV vaccines are recommended and provided free to eligible people. 

The MMR vaccine is recommended for: 
•    children 12 months of age and older as part of the routine immunization schedule; 
•    health care workers of any age; 
•    people born after 1970; and 
•    people with incomplete or unknown immunization records. 

The MMRV vaccine is recommended for children 4 to 6 years of age for the routine preschool booster. 

Talk to your health care provider or local health centre if you’re not sure whether you or your child should get the vaccine.

Speak with your health care provider if you or your child: 

• had a life-threatening reaction to a previous dose of this vaccine; 
• have an immune system weakened by disease or medical treatment; 
• received a blood transfusion or other blood products within the past 12 months; 
• have active, untreated tuberculosis; or 
• is pregnant or planning to become pregnant. 
   

Avoid pregnancy 1 month after getting a live vaccine. 
 

There’s no need to delay getting immunized because of a cold or other mild illness. If you have concerns, speak with your health care provider.

Vaccination helps:

• protect against rubella;
• reduce the risk of serious complications;
• protect pregnant people and developing babies;
• reduce the spread of rubella in the community; and
• protect people who cannot get vaccinated.
   

The vaccine is safe, effective and free for eligible people in Yukon.

Common reactions are usually mild, resolve within a few days and may include: 
•    redness, tenderness or swelling at the injection site; 
•    a mild fever; and 
•    tiredness. 

A mild fever and a rash that looks like measles can occur about 2 weeks after the vaccine is given. 
To manage symptoms: 
•    use a cool, damp cloth on the injection site; and 
•    use acetaminophen if needed. 

After you get the vaccine
•    Stay at the clinic for 15 minutes after getting any vaccine.
•    Severe allergic reactions are very rare. Clinic staff are trained to treat them right away.
•    If you have symptoms of a severe reaction after leaving the clinic, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.
•    If you or your child has a srious or unexpected reaction after vaccination, contact your health care provider or local health centre.