Everything You Need To Know About Measles And Rubella Vaccine In Nigeria 

Vaccination is one of the most effective and affordable ways to protect children and communities from life threatening diseases.In Nigeria and across the world the Measles and Rubella (MR) Vaccine plays a critical role in preventing illness, disability and death caused by two highly Contagious Viral infections.supportedby the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF,the MR Vaccine is a key part of childhood immunization and National vaccination Campaigns.

     These explains everything Nigerians Need to know about the Measles and Rubella Vaccine.what it is,why it matters,who should receive it and how it helps protect Families and Communities.

What is the Measles And Rubella(MR) Vaccine?

The Measles and Rubella Vaccine, commonly called the MR Vaccine is a combined Vaccine that protects against Measles and Rubella,two viral diseases that spread easily through Coughing, Sneezing and Close contact .The vaccine contains weakened forms of the viruses that stimulate the  body's immune system to produce protective antibodies.Once Vaccinated,a child's body can recognize and fight the viruses if exposed in the future preventing serious illness 

In Nigeria,the MR Vaccine is provided free of charge in Government Health Facilities as part of routine immunization and special Vaccination Campaigns supported by WHO, UNICEF and the Federal Ministry Of Health.

The Measles and Rubella Vaccine are free in Nigeria 

Understanding Measles 

A single infected person can spread the virus to many others, especially in crowded environments such as schools,markets and households.common symptoms of Measles includes:High fever, persistent cough,Runny nose,Red watery eyes,A red rash that usually starts on the face and spread to the body .

In Nigeria, Measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia,severe diarrhea,ear infections,blindness, brain inflammation and death, particularly among malnourished children and those with weak immune systems.

Understanding Rubella 

Rubella,also known as German measles is usually mild in children and adults, symptoms may include mild fever,skin rash, swollen lymph nodes,joint pain in adults.

However, Rubella becomes extremely dangerous when a woman is infected during pregnancy, infection in early pregnancy can cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS)in the unborn baby.CRS may result in Deafness,Heart defects, cataracts and vision problems, developmental delays, miscarriage or stillbirth preventing Rubella through Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect pregnant women and newborns.

Why The MR Vaccine Is Important in Nigeria 

According to WHO and UNICEF, Vaccination is essential to achieving healthy childhood development and reducing preventable deaths .The MR Vaccine is important because it:

1.protects children from severe illness,vaccinated children are far less likely to suffer complications or die from Measles or Rubella.

2.protects pregnant women and newborn babies,By preventing Rubella infection,the MR vaccine helps eliminate Congenital Rubella Syndrome.

3.prevents outbreaks,High Vaccination coverage helps stop the spread of Measles and Rubella in communities 

4.Builds herd immunity when most people are Vaccinated, even those who cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons are protected.

Children getting vapccinated 

Who should receive the MR Vaccine ?

In Nigeria Health Authorities recommend the MR Vaccine for: infants and young children, starting from about 9 months of age.A second dose to ensure long-term protection, children who missed earlier Vaccination through catch-up campaigns.women of childbearing age in some public Health Programs, parents and caregivers are encouraged to take children to the health center to complete all recommended doses.

Safety and possible side effects of the MR Vaccine 

The MR Vaccine has been used safely worldwide for decades.it is approved and monitored by WHO and National Health Authorities.common mild side effects may include:mild fever, slight rash,pain or swelling at the injection site.These side effects usually disappear within few days, serious reactions are extremely rare.The benefits of Vaccination greatly outweigh the rules of Measles or Rubella infection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Measles and Rubella Vaccine

1. What is the measles and rubella vaccine used for?

The measles and rubella (MR) vaccine is used to protect children and adults from measles and rubella, two highly contagious viral diseases that can cause serious complications and death if not prevented.

2. Is the MR vaccine free in Nigeria?

Yes. In Nigeria, the MR vaccine is provided free of charge at government-approved health centres as part of routine immunization and special vaccination campaigns supported by WHO, UNICEF, and the Federal Government.

3. At what age should a child receive the MR vaccine?

Children usually receive the first dose from around 9 months of age, with a second dose given later according to national immunization guidelines.

4. Is the measles and rubella vaccine safe for children?

Yes. The MR vaccine has been used worldwide for many years and is considered safe and effective. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as low fever or slight swelling at the injection site.

5. Can the MR vaccine cause infertility?

No. There is no scientific evidence that the measles and rubella vaccine causes infertility in men or women.

6. Can a vaccinated child still get measles or rubella?

Although no vaccine is 100% effective, vaccinated children are far less likely to get infected. If they do, the illness is usually milder and less dangerous.

7. Why is rubella dangerous during pregnancy?

Rubella infection during pregnancy can cause Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), leading to birth defects, miscarriage, or stillbirth. Vaccination helps prevent this risk.

8. What should parents do if a child misses a vaccine dose?

Parents should take the child to the nearest health facility for catch-up vaccination. Health workers will guide them on the correct schedule.