- Protects against
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Chickenpox
- How given
- Injection, usually in the upper arm or thigh.
- Doses
- Given as one or two doses depending on the schedule used.
- Reactions
- Moderate
About this vaccine
MMRV combines the MMR vaccine with chickenpox (varicella) protection in a single injection. It can reduce the number of separate shots when both are due at the same visit. It is used as an alternative to giving MMR and varicella separately.
What it protects against
Measles
A highly contagious viral infection causing fever, rash and serious complications.
Disease guide DiseaseMumps
A viral infection best known for causing painful, swollen cheeks.
Disease guide DiseaseRubella
A usually mild infection that causes serious birth defects during pregnancy.
Disease guide DiseaseChickenpox
A very contagious infection causing an itchy, blistering rash.
Disease guideWhen it's given
Ages follow the schedules listed above. Your pediatrician may adjust timing for your child.
How it's given
Injection, usually in the upper arm or thigh. This vaccine covers multiple infections in a single dose, reducing the number of separate injections needed at each visit.
Side effects & safety
A mild fever or rash may appear about a week after the shot. As with MMR, this is a normal immune response and is usually mild and short-lived.
A mild fever or fussiness is fairly common for a day or two. This is a sign the immune system is responding normally.
When to call your doctor: if fever exceeds 40°C, lasts more than 2 days, or your child seems unusually unwell.
Alternatives & related vaccines
Common questions
Sources
- Varicella vaccines: WHO position paper · WHO, 2014.
Information on this page is compiled from authoritative public health sources and written in TinyDose's own voice. It is intended for general understanding only. Always follow your pediatrician's guidance.
From the blog
All guides →This information is provided by TinyDose for general understanding only and is not medical advice. Vaccine names, ages and doses can vary by country, brand and individual circumstances. Always follow the guidance of your pediatrician or local health authority for your child’s vaccination schedule.
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