Measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine

The MMRV vaccine is provided free as part of the routine New Brunswick Immunization Schedule for children. It is given as an injection into the upper arm.

In New Brunswick, the vaccine is provided to children as a series of two doses. The first dose is given at 12 months of age and the second at 18 months, usually at the same time as other routine childhood immunizations.

Multiple vaccines can be administered at the same time. This means earlier protection against multiple diseases and fewer appointments. Receiving multiple vaccines at the same time does not compromise the effectiveness of each vaccine.

The MMRV vaccine is the best way to protect against measles, mumps, rubella and varicella. These diseases can cause serious illness and complications, including death. Ensuring that you and your child are fully immunized also helps protect those around you.

The vaccine should not be given if your child:

• had a severe allergic reaction to the vaccine previously
• is allergic to any of the ingredients of the vaccine or its container
• is 13 years of age or older

Speak with your primary care provider if your child has a weakened immune system or had a blood transfusion or received other blood products within the last three to 11 months, as vaccination may need to be delayed.

Inform your immunization provider if your child has any health problems or allergies.

The most common reactions include a mild fever and soreness, redness and/or swelling where the vaccine was given. However up to one in 10 children may experience a rash (similar to measles, rubella or chickenpox) or a high fever over 39°C. Up to one person in 100 may experience a swelling of the glands in the neck, cheek, armpit or groin and diarrhea, vomiting and tiredness. For mild reactions, a cold compress at the injection site may reduce discomfort. Ask a health-care provider what medicine is best to reduce fever.

With any vaccine there is an extremely rare possibility (less than one in a million people) of a life-threatening allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. For this reason, it is important to remain in the clinic for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine. Signs of this reaction may include rash, difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, tongue or lips. This reaction can be treated. Seek immediate medical attention if your child has left the vaccination site and develops serious symptoms.

If your child experiences unusual reactions to the vaccine or you have any questions or concerns, please contact your primary care provider, pharmacy, Public Health office or Tele-Care (811).

The MMRV vaccine is provided through your local Public Health office (Horizon, Vitalité) or your primary care provider.

Vaccination records for people aged 16 and older are available by registering online at MyHealthNB. To access your immunization record, please register or sign in to your account.

The paper record of immunization provided when vaccinated will continue to be the official record. Keep your immunization record in a safe place.

If the information on your record is incorrect or you received immunizations outside of New Brunswick and want them added, send an email to [email protected].

Immunizations administered prior to 1991 may not be readily accessible in MyHealthNB. If your vaccination record is not available at MyHealthNB, contact the place you received your vaccines.