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How does the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine work?

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a combination vaccine that provides protection against three highly contagious viral diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella. It is administered through a series of two doses, usually given to children between the ages of 12 to 15 months, and then again between 4 to 6 years of age.

Measles:

The MMR vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the measles virus. When the vaccine is administered, it contains a weakened form of the live measles virus. This triggers the body’s immune response, leading to the production of specific antibodies that recognize and neutralize the virus.

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These antibodies remain in the body, providing long-term immunity against future measles infections. In case of exposure to the actual measles virus, the immune system recognizes it and rapidly produces a stronger immune response, preventing the virus from causing a full-blown infection.

Mumps:

Similar to measles, the MMR vaccine also contains a weakened form of the live mumps virus. Once administered, the vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the mumps virus. These antibodies provide protection against future mumps infections by recognizing and neutralizing the virus.

In the event of exposure to the mumps virus, the immune system quickly responds by producing a robust immune response, preventing the virus from causing a severe infection.

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Rubella:

The MMR vaccine also includes a weakened form of the live rubella virus. Upon administration, the vaccine prompts the immune system to generate specific antibodies against the rubella virus. These antibodies help the body recognize and eliminate the rubella virus, providing immunity against future rubella infections.

If an individual who has received the MMR vaccine comes into contact with the rubella virus, their immune system rapidly responds by producing a strong immune response, preventing the virus from causing a full-blown infection.

Overall, the MMR vaccine works by introducing weakened forms of the live viruses responsible for measles, mumps, and rubella into the body. This stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that recognize and neutralize these viruses, providing long-term protection against these highly contagious diseases.

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