The MMR vaccine is a combined measles-mumps-rubella inoculation. It contains the safest and most effective form of each vaccine. You are considered immune to mumps if you’ve had the infection before or if you’ve been immunized with the MMR vaccine. But a single dose of the vaccine does not offer enough protection during an outbreak. So its important to ensure you receive two doses of the MMR vaccine.  The recommendation of the second dose did not begin until the late 1980s or early 1990s. So many young adults may not have received a second dose of the vaccine. If you are an adult, talk to your doctor about the number of vaccines for mumps you have received and ensure you are given both doses. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended before a child enters school. The first one should be given between 12 and 15 months old. The second one should be given between 4 and 6 years old. Though the initial shot for the vaccine may be a bit painful, most people do not experience any serious side effects from the vaccine. In fact, less than one out of 1 million doses causes a serious allergic reaction.  Despite fairly prevalent internet rumors due to a discredited study, the MMR vaccine does not cause autism. If your doctor runs a blood test and confirms you are immune to measles, mumps and rubella, you do not need the vaccine. As well, if you have already been given two doses of the vaccine, you normally do not need to be vaccinated again.   In the case of a severe outbreak, a physician may recommend that you receive a third dose to “boost” your immunity.  The vaccine is not recommended for women who are pregnant or plan to get pregnant within the next four weeks. It is also not recommended for individuals who have a life-threatening allergy to gelatin or antibiotic neomycin. Check with your doctor before getting vaccinated if you have cancer, a blood disorder or HIV/AIDS. Talk to your doctor before getting vaccinated if you’re taking steroids or other drugs that affect your immune system. When you sneeze or cough, use a tissue to wipe your nose and cover your mouth. Throw away any used tissues to keep them away from others. You should also wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of germs, including mumps.  To prevent the spread of mumps to others, it’s important to stay home for at least five days after you have been diagnosed with mumps.  The mumps virus can be spread via surfaces that have been infected, so do not share utensils or cups with someone who has been infected and be sure to sanitize shared surfaces (countertops, light switches, door knobs, etc) with antiseptic cleaners.
تأكد من تلقيك لجرعتين من لقاح الفيروس (MMR). كن حذرًا من الحالات التي لا ينبغي فيها أن تتلقي لقاح الفيروس. مارس عادات صحية سليمة كغسيل الأيدي واستخدام المناديل.