Adverse events following measles and rubella immunization campaign in shahrekord, iran; 2003-2004

To report on the adverse events following the administration of Measles and Rubella [MR] vaccine during an immunization campaign in Shaharekord, Iran. Prospective study conducted between December 2003 and January 2004. Nurseries, primary schools, high schools and universities in Shahrekord, Southwest of Iran, Four thousand children and students from the above institutions were randomly selected and recruited. They were followed up for one month after vaccination for any adverse events. Data collected using a questionnaire and physical examination were analyzed using SPSS 11 software. Adverse events following MR vaccine administration. The overall incidence rate of adverse events was 25.4%. Lymphadenopathy [8.7%], fever [8.3%] and sore throat [7.3%] were the most prevalent complications. Incidence of lymphadenopathy and arthralgia was higher in males [p < 0.01, p < 0.02 respectively], whereas myalgia was more common in females [p < 0.002]. Lymphadenopathy was less common in the older age groups. Fever frequency was higher in the 5-10 and 21-25 age groups [p < 0.001]. Myalgia and arthralgia was seen with higher frequency in the 11-15 and 16-20 age groups [p < 0.001]. Skin rash was more common in the 5-10 and 11-15 age groups [p < 0.001]. Large scale interventions such as this vaccination campaign in a population revealed adverse events, but the frequency of serious adverse events with MR vaccine was low. Therefore, the benefit to risk ratio of such a campaign is favorable and such programs can be undertaken safely