The rubella vaccine (Meruvax II) is an injection given for protection against rubella. Rubella (also known as German measles) is a serious infection that causes miscarriages, stillbirths or birth defects in unborn babies when pregnant women get the disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. Immunization is recommended for all children over 1 year of age, medical workers, those who travel abroad and women of child-bearing age.
Injection Site Reaction
You may experience burning, stinging, itching, swelling, redness, tenderness, or hard lump at the site of vaccination, reports Drugs,com. These side effects should diminish within a few days of receiving the rubella vaccine. A cold compress can help alleviate swelling of the affected area. You may ask your physician if you could use an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve tenderness.
Flu-like Symptoms
You may experience flu like symptoms following vaccination with the rubella vaccine. Symptoms can include fever, headache, sore throat, runny nose, swollen lymph glands and muscle aches. Aches or pain in joints may not occur until one to 10 weeks after immunization, and usually last less than a week, according to the Mayo Clinic. Consult your physician if these effects become bothersome. Your doctor may recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever or antihistamine. A saline nasal spray may help diminish nasal symptoms. If these symptoms do not subside after a few days, contact your healthcare provider. You may be suffering from an illness that is unrelated to the rubella vaccine.
Skin Rash
You may develop a skin rash following vaccination. This is a common side effect of the rubella vaccine. If skin rash occurs in conjunction with hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the tongue or throat, seek emergency medical attention. You may be having an allergic reaction to this vaccination.
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