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Tomball Independent School District

Measles Mumps Rubella

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR): Important Health Information for Families 

The health and safety of our students is our top priority. Please review the following information about measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR), the vaccines that prevent these illnesses, and Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) guidelines for school attendance. 
 

About Measles, Mumps, and Rubella 

  • Measles (Rubeola): Highly contagious viral illness spread through the air. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and rash. Complications can include pneumonia and brain swelling (encephalitis). 
  • Mumps: Causes fever, headache, muscle aches, and swelling of salivary glands. Complications can include meningitis and inflammation of reproductive organs. 
  • Rubella (German Measles): Usually mild but dangerous during pregnancy, as it can cause congenital rubella syndrome (CRS), leading to birth defects. 
Learn more: 

Vaccines: Your Best Protection 

  • The MMR vaccine protects against all three diseases. Two doses are recommended: 
    • First dose: 12–15 months of age 
    • Second dose: 4–6 years of age 
  • Two doses are about 97% effective against measles, 88% against mumps, and 97% against rubella. 
More info: MMR Vaccine – CDC 
 

History and Safety 

The MMR vaccine has been in use since 1971 and has an excellent safety record. Extensive studies confirm no link between MMR and autism. 
 
Texas DSHS Exclusion Criteria Under Texas Administrative Code §97.7, schools must exclude: 
  • Measles: Exclude until 4 days after rash onset. 
  • Mumps: Exclude for 5 days after onset of parotitis (swelling). 
  • Rubella: Exclude for 7 days after rash onset. 
Outbreak Guidance: 
Unvaccinated students exposed to measles or rubella are excluded from school for 21 days after last exposure. 
 

Readmission Guidelines 

Students may return to school when: 
  • They meet the exclusion period above AND are well enough to participate in school activities. 
  • If exposed and unvaccinated, they may return after the required exclusion period or upon providing proof of vaccination or immunity. 
  • Students with zero doses of MMR vaccine may return to school immediately if they receive their first documented dose within 72 hours of exposure. A second dose of MMR vaccine should be given at minimum 28 days after the first dose of the vaccine. 
  • Students with one documented MMR dose may remain in school with no exclusion but should receive their second dose of MMR vaccine, at minimum 28 days after the first dose of the vaccine. 
 

What Parents Can Do 

  • Ensure your child is up to date on MMR vaccinations. 
  • Keep sick children home and notify the school nurse if your child is diagnosed with measles, mumps, or rubella. 
  • Contact your healthcare provider or local health department for vaccination options.