how often to get measles vaccine

Measles vaccine recommendations emphasize two doses for lifelong protection. The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is highly effective when given on the standard schedule.

Standard Schedule

Children typically receive the first MMR dose at 12-15 months of age. The second dose follows at 4-6 years old, before starting school.

• This timing allows optimal immune response while fitting routine checkups.

• For high-risk travel (e.g., infants 6-11 months to outbreak areas), an early dose is advised, followed by the full series later.

Adults without evidence of immunity (no vaccination records, no prior measles infection, or no antibody test) should get at least one dose , ideally two doses spaced 4 weeks apart.

Recent Updates Amid Outbreaks

In 2025 , rising U.S. measles cases prompted the CDC and AAP to accelerate dosing for some children.

Group| Updated Guidance (2025) 1
---|---
Infants 6-11 months (high-risk areas)| First dose now; second at 12 months minimum.
Unvaccinated kids 12+ months| Dose 1 immediately; Dose 2 after 4 weeks.
Kids with one prior dose (12+ months)| Second dose ASAP.
Adults lacking immunity| 1-2 doses, especially in outbreaks.

These changes aim to curb spread quickly, as measles is highly contagious.

Why Two Doses?

One dose offers 93% effectiveness ; two doses boost it to 97%. Lifelong immunity is expected post-series—no routine boosters needed unless exposed or immunocompromised.

• Outbreaks often hit under-vaccinated pockets, underscoring two-dose importance.

• Check records via state immunization registries or blood tests if unsure.

Special Groups

Pregnant people, infants under 6 months, and severely immunocompromised can't get MMR—rely on herd immunity.

Scenario| Dosing Advice 37
---|---
International travel (12+ months)| Ensure 2 doses; early for infants.
Healthcare workers| 2 doses minimum.
College entry/outbreaks| Verify immunity; vaccinate if needed.

Consult a provider for titers or catch-up.

Latest Context (Feb 2026)

No major schedule shifts since 2025 updates, but ongoing outbreaks (post-2024 surges) reinforce urgency. Forums buzz about personal stories: parents rushing second doses after exposures, adults discovering gaps via titers.

"Rising cases mean get vaccinated now if eligible—don't wait for outbreaks." —Common forum sentiment

Bottom TL;DR : Two MMR doses (12-15 months, 4-6 years) for most; catch up ASAP if missing. Always verify with a doctor.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.