KLINIKFARMA – Rubella vaccine, which is often given together with measles and mumps vaccine in the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) combination, has become a hot and controversial topic in various health forums and social media. Discussions around rubella vaccine are often filled with misleading information and often cause concern among the public. This article aims to dissect and explain myths and facts about rubella vaccine, in order to provide a clear and accurate understanding.
Understanding Rubella Vaccine
Rubella vaccine is a vaccine used to prevent rubella, a disease caused by the rubella virus. This disease is generally characterized by a skin rash and mild fever. Although this disease is considered mild in children and adults, rubella can be serious if it infects pregnant women because it can cause congenital rubella syndrome in unborn babies.
Myths and Facts about Rubella Vaccine
Myth 1: Rubella Vaccine Causes Autism
Fact:
Extensive scientific research has shown that there is no link between the MMR vaccine and autism. The original study that sparked these concerns has been retracted and deemed methodologically and ethically flawed.
Myth 2: Rubella Vaccine Is Not Necessary Because the Disease Is Rare
Fact:
Although rubella cases have declined significantly in many countries thanks to vaccination programs, the virus is still circulating in some areas. Without adequate vaccination, a resurgence of the disease could occur rapidly, posing a risk to pregnant women and their unborn babies.
Myth 3: Rubella Vaccine Is More Dangerous Than The Disease
Fact:
Side effects from the rubella vaccine are generally mild and temporary, such as pain at the injection site or a mild fever. The risk of serious complications from vaccination is very small, especially when compared to the risk of complications from rubella itself.
Myth 4: Using Rubella Vaccine in Combination with MMR Increases the Risk of Side Effects
Fact:
Studies have shown that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective. This combination vaccination does not increase the risk of side effects compared to giving the vaccines separately.
The Importance of Rubella Vaccination
Preventing Congenital Rubella Syndrome
Rubella vaccine is essential to prevent congenital rubella syndrome, a serious condition that can cause blindness, deafness, heart defects, and brain damage in babies infected with the rubella virus in the womb.
Herd Immunity
Rubella vaccination helps create herd immunity, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated, such as newborns and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Long Term Protection
The rubella vaccine provides long-term protection against the disease, with high effectiveness in preventing infection.
Understanding the difference between myths and facts about rubella vaccine is an important step in making informed decisions about vaccination. Through proper education based on scientific evidence, the public can play a more active role in rubella prevention efforts and protecting future generations from the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
