Rumours about MMR vaccine false
Accordingly, authorised public and private health institutions affiliated to the MoH and other non-MoH institutions such as the military and security authorities, Diwan of Royal Court and the Sultan Qaboos University Hospital have started receiving both citizens and expatriates for free vaccination.
Many private sector health establishments too have started receiving them.
Measles is a very contagious disease that can spread through contact with infected mucus and saliva.
An infected person can release the infection into the air when he coughs or sneezes.
The disease can be contracted from close personal contact or direct contact with infected nasal or throat secretions.
The virus remains active and contagious in the air or on infected surfaces for up to two hours.
Young children who are not vaccinated are at a high risk for measles and its complications, besides “unvaccinated” pregnant women and any person who is not immune to measles.
Persons suffering from measles develops fever, runny nose, sore throat, and cough.
A widespread skin clear sign of measles.
Measles can lead to lifethreatening complications such as pneumonia and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). Other complications may include ear infection, bronchitis, miscarriage or preterm labour, and severe diarrhoea. Measles vaccine has been in use for over 50 years. It is safe, effective and inexpensive.
It is often incorporated with rubella and mumps vaccines as (MMR). Routine measles vaccination is recommended to prevent measles disease.
MMR doses are given at 12 months and 18 months of age to all children in Oman. rash is a
In the immunisation campaigns, one dose is given for each adult in the form of an injection on the arm.
During the national campaign, the vaccine will be made available free at the governorates’ health institutions from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm.
As for those studying abroad, they should get themselves vaccinated at the health centres before travelling or once they return home.
Patients with kidney failures undergoing dialysis can safely take the vaccine.
People suffering from temporary or chronic health issues related to platelets need to consult a specialist for deciding the right time for taking the vaccine.
Blood donors should either do- nate blood before vaccination or 30 days after the vaccination.
Measles vaccine is not recommended for persons with congenital immunodeficiency, HIV infection, leukaemia, lymphoma or generalised malignancy or those receiving alkylating agents, antimetabolites, radiation or large doses of corticosteroids, besides pregnant women.
Pregnant women should not take the measles vaccine and should receive it after giving birth.
It is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Women in the targeted age group should avoid conceiving for at least four weeks after MMR vaccination.
It is suggested that they go for a pregnancy test before getting vaccinated.