Understanding Chronic Arthritis After Rubella-Containing Vaccines
Rubella-containing vaccines, such as the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) and MMRV (measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella) vaccines, are essential tools in preventing serious infectious diseases. While these vaccines are generally safe, in rare cases they can cause certain adverse reactions. One such reaction recognized by the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (“VICP”) is chronic arthritis.
What Is Chronic Arthritis?
For VICP purposes, chronic arthritis is defined as persistent joint swelling accompanied by at least two of the following:
Warmth
Tenderness
Pain with movement
Limited range of motion
These symptoms must last for at least six months.
Timing Matters: 7 to 42 Days After Vaccination
Under the Vaccine Injury Table, chronic arthritis related to rubella-containing vaccines must meet a specific timing requirement. Symptoms of acute arthritis (joint swelling) must appear no earlier than 7 days and no later than 42 days after vaccination.
To qualify under the VICP definition, a petitioner may need to show:
No recent joint disease: No history of arthropathy (joint disease) within the three years before receiving the vaccine.
Onset of acute arthritis: Medical records document objective signs of acute arthritis (such as joint swelling) starting within the 7–42 day period after vaccination, with documentation made within 30 days of onset.
Persistence over time: Within three years of onset, records confirm the arthritis lasted—continuously or intermittently—for more than six months following vaccination.
Laboratory confirmation: Documented antibody response to the rubella virus.
What Is Not Considered Chronic Arthritis Under VICP?
Certain conditions may affect the joints but are excluded from the VICP’s definition of chronic arthritis. These include:
· Musculoskeletal disorders like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, systemic sclerosis, or juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
· Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis).
· Joint problems caused by infections not related to rubella.
· Joint issues from metabolic or hormonal disorders, injuries, cancer, nerve problems, or bone/cartilage conditions.
· Arthritis linked to psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, ankylosing spondylitis, or Reiter’s syndrome.
· Joint pain (arthralgia) or stiffness without swelling.
Why These Details Matter - On-Table vs. Off-Table Claims
For those seeking compensation through the VICP, meeting the medical and timing requirements is essential. Claims can be denied if the documented symptoms, timing, or medical history don’t match the Table Injury criteria.
However, depending on the circumstances, “off-table” claims—where the condition is not listed on the Vaccine Injury Table—can still be pursued. These cases require stronger proof and often hinge on expert medical testimony.
Contact a Vaccine Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one developed an injury, you may have a legal claim. At Texas Vaccine Lawyers, a Division of The Greenwood Law Firm, we help clients navigate the VICP claims process to seek justice for vaccine-related injuries. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Source: https://www.hrsa.gov/sites/default/files/hrsa/vicp/vaccine-injury-table-01-03-2022.pdf