Adverse events associated with Measles and Rubella vaccination campaign 2019 in India

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Intensive Care
• Vaccinology
• Public Health

Background:

• Measles and rubella are significant public health concerns, necessitating widespread vaccination.
• The measles-rubella (MR) vaccine campaign in India aimed to reduce disease burden.
• Understanding post-vaccination adverse events is crucial for public confidence and vaccine program success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spectrum of adverse reactions following measles-rubella (MR) vaccination during a campaign in India.
• To characterize the clinical presentation and outcomes of children experiencing severe adverse events post-MR vaccination.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, observational study was conducted in a tertiary care pediatric intensive care unit.
• Included children aged 9 months to 15 years with adverse effects severe enough to require admission within 7 days of MR vaccination.
• Clinical data, presenting symptoms, and outcomes were recorded.

Main Results:

• Fever (44.8%), vomiting (34.5%), and abdominal pain/dizziness (31%) were the most common presenting complaints.
• Rare events included abnormal body movements, generalized macular rashes, and altered sensorium.
• All admitted children recovered without mortality or long-term morbidity; investigations yielded no significant findings.

Conclusions:

• Measles-rubella (MR) vaccination programs are scientifically sound and highly recommended globally.
• Causality assessment of vaccine adverse events is complex and requires further scientific advancement.
• While most adverse events are mild, continued vigilance and research into causality are important.