The MMR vaccine has been the subject of controversy in the past, leaving some parents feeling cautious or confused.
Vaccination is a vital tool in preventing and controlling infectious diseases, but it’s natural to have questions or doubts, especially when it comes to the health of your child. The purpose of the MMR vaccine is to protect little ones against measles, mumps, and rubella, but if you’re currently weighing up whether or not your child should have the MMR vaccine, then here are five important factors to consider:
1. Gain A Stronger Understanding Of The Diseases
To make an informed decision about vaccination, it’s crucial to understand the diseases that the MMR vaccine prevents. Measles, mumps, and rubella are all highly contagious diseases, which can lead to serious complications:
- Measles: Can cause high fever, rash, cough, and in severe cases, pneumonia, meningitis, blindness, seizures and encephalitis. Cases are growing rapidly in the UK, particularly in London so the threat is real.
- Mumps: May lead to swollen salivary glands, fever, and in some cases, mumps can lead to viral meningitis if the virus moves into the outer layer of the brain.
- Rubella: Can be especially harmful during pregnancy, causing birth defects or miscarriage. If you’re pregnant and have a new rash or have been in close contact with someone who has rubella, call your midwife, maternity unit or GP immediately.
These diseases are not trivial, and vaccination provides strong protection. We held a Q&A with Dr Oge Ilozue to get a more detailed understanding of measles.
Read “Is Measles Just a Rash?” here
2. Examine Vaccine Safety Records
The MMR vaccine has a long history of safe use and has been administered to millions of children worldwide. In the UK since the 1960s, it’s prevented over 20 million measles cases, saving 4,500 lives.
All vaccines, including the MMR vaccine, undergo rigorous testing for safety and effectiveness before approval. They are continually checked for side effects after introduction, which is why medical practitioners have so much confidence offering the vaccine to your child.
3. Debunking The Autism Myth
When asked, ‘Is it Safe?’ Dr Oge Ilozue, GP in Barnet and Clinical Advisor for NHS England London, said the following:
One of the most persistent concerns about the MMR vaccine suggests that there is a link with this vaccination to autism. The concern has been followed up with numerous scientific studies to check these suggestions, and researchers have found no evidence of any link between the MMR vaccine and autism.
The original study that raised this concern has been discredited and retracted. According to Senad Begic, epidemiologist, in this article by Unicef, “the article was removed from the medical journal Lancet and labeled as dishonest and fabricated, and Wakefield lost his license to work in the UK.”
While we understand that you may have had concerns after hearing this, it’s crucial to rely on credible scientific research when figuring out whether or not you consider the vaccine safe.
4. Weigh Up The Risks And Benefits
Every medical intervention carries some risk, including surgeries, prescribed medicines, and vaccines. However, the MMR vaccine is very safe. Most side effects are mild and do not last long, such as a sore arm or leg or mild temperature.
It’s essential to weigh this against the possible complications of the diseases vaccinations prevent, which are far more serious.
Measles, mumps, and rubella can lead to severe health problems, hospitalisation, or even death in some cases. A vaccination significantly reduces these risks against dangerous complications like these.
5. Consider Community Immunity
Vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to community immunity, also known as herd immunity. When a high percentage of a population is vaccinated, it prevents the spread of the disease, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and individuals with certain medical conditions. Your decision to vaccinate affects not only your child but also your community.
Arm Yourself With Information
While it’s natural to have concerns and questions about vaccines like the MMR vaccine, it’s crucial to base your decisions on reliable information and scientific evidence. Consult with healthcare professionals, such as your child’s GP, who can provide accurate information and address your concerns. Remember that vaccination is a proven and effective way to protect your child from potentially severe and preventable diseases, while also contributing to the health of the wider community.
For more information, here are some useful links:
Disclaimer: The NHS have paid a fee towards this post. This fee will go towards helping more parents find classes and support near them.
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If you found this post useful, you may also like:
Is Measles Just a Rash? The Importance of Measles Vaccination for Your Child
How To Prepare For Your Toddler’s Jab (With As Few Tears As Possible!)
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