The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles).
Immunization Schedule
MMR vaccinations are given by injection in 2 doses:
at age 12–15 months
at age 4–6 years
During a mumps outbreak, children older than one year of age who are in close contact with infected individuals should get another dose of the vaccine, no matter how many doses they have already had. Your child’s doctor will let you know if your child needs this.
Why Is Vaccine The Recommended?
Measles, mumps, and rubella are infections that can lead to serious health problem. More than 95% of children receiving MMR will be protected from the 3 diseases throughout their lives.
Possible Risks
Serious problems such as allergic reactions are rare. Potential mild to moderate reactions include rash, fever, swollen cheeks, febrile seizures, and mild joint pain.
Routine vaccination:
Minimum age: 9 months or 270 completed days.
Administer the primary dose of MMR vaccine at age 9 to 12 months, the second dose at age 15 through 18 months, and final (the 3rd) dose at age 4 through 6 years.
The 2nd dose must follow in 2nd year of life. However, it is given at anytime 4-8 weeks after the first dose
There is no need to give a stand-alone measles vaccine.
Catch-up vaccination:
Ensure that all school-aged kids and adolescents have had at least two doses of MMR vaccine (3 doses if the 1st dose is received before 12 months) ;
The minimum interval to observe between the 2 doses is 4 weeks.
One dose, if previously vaccinated with one dose (2 doses if the 1st dose is received before twelve months) ;
‘Stand alone’ measles/any measles-containing vaccine or MMR can be administered to infants aged 6 through 8 months during outbreaks. However, this dose should not be counted.