Even today these diseases can lead to pneumonia, choking, brain damage, heart problems, and blindness and even death in children who are not protected. And they still kill children every year. Yes, very safe. But like any medicine they can occasionally cause reactions. Usually these are mild, like a sore arm or a slight fever.
Serious reactions are rare, but they can happen.
Your doctor or nurse will discuss these with you before giving the shots. The important thing to remember is that children are in much more danger from the diseases than from the shots. You will have to go back for more shots 4 or 5 times before the child starts school. Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to come back. Your child needs several doses of each vaccine to be completely protected.