Rubella vaccine (Live) is a lyophilized, live attenuated viral vaccine derived from the Wistar RA 27/3 strain of rubella virus, propagated in human diploid lung fibroblasts. It contains not less than 1000 cell culture infectious dose 50 (CCID50) per dose. It is indicated for active immunization against rubella (German measles) in individuals from 9 months of age. The vaccine induces both humoral and cellular immunity, providing long-term protection. In India, it is a critical component of the National Immunization Schedule, primarily administered as part of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine campaign to eliminate Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS).
Adult: A single 0.5 ml dose administered subcutaneously, preferably in the upper arm.
Note: Reconstitute the lyophilized vaccine with the entire volume of supplied sterile Water for Injection. Shake well until a clear, slightly pinkish or yellowish solution is obtained. Administer immediately or within 8 hours if stored at 2-8°C. Use a separate sterile syringe and needle for each individual. Inject subcutaneously into the outer aspect of the upper arm.
The vaccine contains live, attenuated rubella virus (RA 27/3 strain). After subcutaneous administration, the virus replicates locally, stimulating a protective immune response that mimics natural infection but without causing disease. This leads to the production of rubella-specific antibodies (primarily IgG) and cell-mediated immunity, providing protection against future wild-type rubella virus infection.
Pregnancy: CONTRANDICATED. The vaccine contains live attenuated virus with a theoretical risk of fetal infection. Pregnancy should be avoided for 1 month after vaccination. Accidental vaccination during pregnancy is not an indication for termination, but careful counseling and monitoring are required.
Driving: No known effects. However, malaise or dizziness, though rare, should be considered.
| Immunosuppressants (e.g., corticosteroids, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, chemotherapy) | Diminished immune response to vaccine; may lead to vaccine failure or increased risk of adverse events from vaccine virus replication. | Major |
| Immunoglobulins or Blood Products | May neutralize the vaccine virus, leading to ineffective immunization. Defer vaccination for 3-11 months depending on the product and dose. | Major |
| Other Live Vaccines (e.g., Varicella, Yellow Fever) | If not administered simultaneously, a minimum interval of 4 weeks should be maintained between administrations of different live vaccines to avoid interference. | Moderate |
| Tuberculin Skin Test (PPD) | Vaccination may temporarily suppress tuberculin reactivity. Administer PPD test either before, simultaneously with, or at least 4-6 weeks after rubella vaccination. | Moderate |
Same composition (Rubella vaccine (Live) (1000ccid50)), different brands: