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Official Description

Measles and rubella virus vaccine, live, for subcutaneous use

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 90708 refers to the measles and rubella virus vaccine, which is administered via subcutaneous injection. Vaccines, unlike immune globulins that offer short-term, passive immunity, provide active, long-term immunity. This is achieved by introducing altered versions of specific viruses or bacteria into the recipient's body, prompting the immune system to produce its own antibodies against these pathogens. The immune system retains a memory of how to produce these antibodies, enabling a quicker and more effective response upon subsequent exposures to the same antigens. The measles and rubella vaccine specifically contains live, attenuated viruses, meaning the viruses have been weakened to the point where they can stimulate an immune response without causing the actual diseases. This vaccine is part of a broader category that includes other live virus vaccines for mumps and rubella, which are also administered subcutaneously. The code 90708 is specifically designated for the combination of measles and rubella, distinguishing it from other related vaccines that target these viruses individually or in different combinations. The focus of this code is solely on the vaccine product itself, rather than the administration or any associated services.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The measles and rubella virus vaccine (CPT® Code 90708) is indicated for the prevention of measles and rubella infections. These diseases can lead to serious health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and congenital rubella syndrome, which can affect fetal development during pregnancy. Vaccination is crucial in controlling outbreaks and ensuring community immunity, particularly in populations at risk, such as infants and individuals who have not been previously vaccinated.

  • Measles Prevention The vaccine is administered to prevent measles, a highly contagious viral infection characterized by fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive rash.
  • Rubella Prevention The vaccine also protects against rubella, which can cause mild illness in children but can lead to severe birth defects if contracted by pregnant women.

2. Procedure

The administration of the measles and rubella virus vaccine involves several key procedural steps to ensure safety and efficacy. First, the healthcare provider prepares the vaccine by checking the expiration date and ensuring that it has been stored correctly. The vaccine is typically supplied in a vial and must be reconstituted with a diluent if it is in a lyophilized form. Once prepared, the provider selects an appropriate site for subcutaneous injection, usually the outer aspect of the upper arm or the thigh in infants. The skin at the injection site is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe to minimize the risk of infection. The provider then uses a sterile syringe and needle to draw up the vaccine, ensuring that no air bubbles are present in the syringe. The needle is inserted at a 45-degree angle into the subcutaneous tissue, and the vaccine is injected slowly. After the injection, the provider may apply gentle pressure to the site with a cotton ball or gauze and may cover it with a bandage if necessary. Finally, the provider documents the administration of the vaccine in the patient's medical record, including the date, vaccine lot number, and site of injection.

  • Step 1: Vaccine Preparation The healthcare provider checks the expiration date and prepares the vaccine, ensuring proper storage and reconstitution if necessary.
  • Step 2: Site Selection An appropriate site for subcutaneous injection is selected, typically the outer aspect of the upper arm or thigh.
  • Step 3: Skin Cleansing The injection site is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Step 4: Injection The vaccine is drawn into a sterile syringe, and the needle is inserted at a 45-degree angle into the subcutaneous tissue for injection.
  • Step 5: Post-Injection Care Gentle pressure is applied to the injection site, and documentation of the vaccine administration is completed in the patient's medical record.

3. Post-Procedure

After the administration of the measles and rubella virus vaccine, patients are typically monitored for a short period to observe for any immediate adverse reactions, such as allergic responses. Common side effects may include mild fever, rash, or soreness at the injection site, which usually resolve on their own. Patients are advised to report any unusual symptoms or severe reactions to their healthcare provider. It is also important for patients to receive information regarding the timing of follow-up vaccinations, as the measles and rubella vaccine is often part of a combination vaccine schedule. Documentation of the vaccination should be maintained in the patient's health records to ensure proper tracking of immunization status.

Short Descr MEASLES-RUBELLA VACCINE SC
Medium Descr MEASLES & RUBELLA VIRUS VACCINE LIVE SUBQ
Long Descr Measles and rubella virus vaccine, live, for subcutaneous use
Status Code Excluded from Physician Fee Schedule by Regulation
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) O1G - Immunizations/Vaccinations
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Deleted Deleted
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
2004-01-01 Changed Code description changed.
Pre-1990 Added Code added.
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