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When did vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella become available?

The first measles vaccines (an inactivated and a live virus product) became available in 1963, both of which were largely replaced by a further attenuated live virus vaccine that was licensed in 1968. The mumps vaccine first became available in 1967, followed by the rubella vaccine in 1969. These three vaccines were combined in 1971 to form the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. A single antigen mumps vaccine was available until 1975. A vaccine that combines both MMR and varicella (chickenpox) vaccines, known as MMRV, became available in 2005. Single antigen measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines are no longer available in the U.S.

What kind of vaccine is it?

The MMR vaccine is made by using live, attenuated (or weakened) strains of the measles, mumps, and rubella viruses.

How is this vaccine given?

This vaccine is a shot given subcutaneously (in the fatty layer of tissue under the skin).

Who should get this vaccine?

All children, adolescents, and adults born in 1957 or later without a valid contraindication should have documentation of vaccination or other evidence of immunity. Additionally, some healthcare workers who were born before 1957 may also need proof of vaccination