Understanding Measles Vaccine Side Effects: What to Watch For

Measles is a virus that causes cold-like symptoms, including coughing, runny nose, eye irritation and a telltale rash. The virus can lead to pneumonia, seizures and death. The measles vaccine is usually given in childhood along with the mumps and rubella vaccine, a combination called the MMR vaccine. Here are some signs of side effects to this vaccine.

Instructions

• 1

  Watch for an allergic reaction like you would get from any medication. The allergic reaction could involve minor problems such as a fever, a mild rash and swollen cheeks or neck. If the minor symptoms persist, call your doctor. The measles vaccine side effects could appear within 7 to 12 days of the shot.

• 2

  Keep an eye out for moderate problems from the measles vaccine. Moderate problems include jerking seizures caused by a high fever, pain and stiffness in the joints, and a temporarily low platelet count. The low platelet count could lead to a bleeding disorder. Contact your doctor right away if the child is hoarse or wheezing, is pale, has a fast heartbeat, or is acting unusual.

• 3

  Catch severe measles vaccine side effects as soon as they occur. A serious reaction occurs in 1 out of a million doses. Severe side effects from the measles vaccine include deafness, seizures, coma, and permanent brain damage. Call 911 and your doctor right away if the child becomes unconscious, has a high fever, or looks different.