Alan Shatter
Question:32 Mr. Shatter asked the Minister for Health when the MMR vaccine was introduced; when it was withdrawn from general use; the reasons for such withdrawal; and the vaccine with which it has now been replaced.
Written Answers. - MMR Vaccine.
The MMR, Measles, Mumps and Rubella, Vaccination Programme was launched by my Department in October 1988.
In September 1992, following the results of a study in the United Kingdom which suggested a very low risk, estimated at no greater than one in 5,000, of vital meningitis associated with the mumps element of the particular vaccine in use, it was decided, that while the reaction from this form of meningitis was likely to be of a transient nature, it would be prudent to replace it.
Another MMR vaccine, known as MMR II, which is not associated with the risk of viral meningitis is now being used in the vaccination programme.