Risks and benefits of the single versus the triple MMR vaccine: how can health professionals reassure parents?

Abstract

Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) are all preventable but infectious diseases caused by viruses. A particular study by Wakefield et al1 suggests that there are potentially adverse effects of having the triple MMR vaccine. This has been reported widely by the media and has caused alarm to parents of young children, probably contributing to the decline in its uptake.2-5 In order to provide the context for the debate regarding the single versus the triple vaccine, this paper briefly appraises firstly, the Wakefield et al research paper1 that has led to public health concerns and secondly, a more rigorous research study (Madsen et al6) that contradicts the findings; the paper then explores the risks and benefits of the single and the triple MMR vaccine programmes, finally providing a short discussion on factors that might influence the decision-making process by parents when faced with the dilemma of not having their child vaccinated, or opting for either the single or triple vaccination programme.