Immunization

Rubella

The Disease

When children get rubella, it is usually a mild disease with a slight fever that lasts for about 24 hours and a rash on the face and neck that lasts two or three days.

 

The Immunization

Rubella vaccine was first licensed in the U.S. in 1969, and the vaccine we use today was licensed in 1979. It is a live, attenuated (weakened) vaccine.

 

Vaccine Recommendations

• AAP: Red Book Online Guidelines for Administration of Measles–Mumps–Rubella Vaccine

• CDC: Measles, Mumps, and Rubella -- Vaccine Use and Strategies for Elimination of Measles, Rubella, and Congenital Rubella Syndrome and Control of Mumps (Exit Site)

 

Quick Facts - What You Need to Know (PDF 23KB)

• Why get vaccinated?

• Who should get MMR vaccine and when?

• Some people should not get MMR vaccine or should wait

• What are the risks from MMR vaccine?

• What if there is a moderate or severe reaction?

 

Other Resources

• MMR Vaccine Information Statement (Exit Site)

• CDC Rubella page (Exit Site)

• Immunization Action Coalition Rubella page (Exit Site)

• National Network for Immunization Information Rubella page (Exit Site)

 

Last Updated: 12/1/2009