It may cause serious complications such as pneumonia, hearing loss, encephalitis, brain damage or death. Mumps Mortality from mumps is low. Nevertheless, complications such as encephalitis, sterility or permanent deafness may occur. The most important consequence of rubella is its effect on the unborn child, particularly if contracted during early pregnancy. The effects include mental retardation, cataracts, deafness or heart disease.
Immunization is one of the most powerful weapons of modern medicine.
For the best effect, recommended schedules suggest that vaccinations be received in infancy. All children are required by law to show proof of immunization against measles, mumps, rubella, polio, tetanus and diphtheria before school entry. The only exemptions permitted are for medical reasons, or for reasons of religious belief or conscience. Children may experience mild side effects such as fever or a sore arm or leg, but the benefits far outweigh such discomforts. Serious adverse reactions to immunization are very rare.