Measles, Mumps, and Rubella

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus. It is transmitted through the air and via droplets when a person coughs, sneezes, or comes into close contact with an infected person. It is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, and the risk of infection exists worldwide. In recent years, there have been repeated outbreaks even in Europe, including in countries that were previously considered safe.
The disease begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis. After a few days, a characteristic rash appears, spreading from the head to the entire body. Measles can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, middle ear infection, or encephalitis, which can cause permanent damage or be fatal.
Vaccination is the most effective protection against disease. Every traveler should have documentation of two doses of the vaccine or proof of immunity from having had the disease. The risk of infection is particularly high when traveling to areas with an ongoing epidemic or when staying in large groups.

Mumps

Mumps is a viral disease caused by the mumps virus, which is transmitted through respiratory droplets or direct contact with an infected person. The disease occurs worldwide, and despite long-standing vaccination programs, local outbreaks occur regularly, particularly among young adults.
Typical symptoms include painful swelling of the parotid salivary glands, fever, headache, and fatigue. In adolescents and adults, serious complications such as inflammation of the testicles, ovaries, pancreas, or meninges may occur. In men, inflammation of the testicles can rarely lead to infertility.
The most effective prevention is vaccination with the combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the vaccine are usually required for long-term protection.

Rubella

Rubella is a viral disease transmitted through droplets upon contact with an infected person. In both children and adults, it usually has a mild course, with a rash, swollen lymph nodes, and a slightly elevated temperature. Nevertheless, it poses a significant health risk, especially for pregnant women.
If a woman contracts rubella early in pregnancy, it can lead to a miscarriage or the development of congenital rubella syndrome, which is associated with severe damage to the fetus’s vision, hearing, heart, and other organs.
Thanks to routine vaccination, rubella is rare in the Czech Republic; however, the virus continues to circulate in many countries around the world. Before planning a pregnancy or traveling abroad, it is advisable to verify that your vaccination series is complete. Vaccination is administered using a combined vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella and provides long-term protection after two doses.