US Trends

when do babies get the measles vaccine

Babies usually get their first measles shot (the MMR vaccine) at 12–15 months old, then a second dose at 4–6 years old.

When do babies get the measles vaccine?

For most healthy children, the routine schedule is:

  • First MMR dose: 12–15 months of age.
  • Second MMR dose: 4–6 years of age (before starting school or kindergarten).

This two‑dose series is what counts as “fully vaccinated” against measles for kids.

Are there earlier doses for travel or outbreaks?

In some situations, babies can get an early measles shot:

  • Babies 6–11 months old traveling internationally or to areas with a measles outbreak can get one early MMR dose.
  • That early dose does not count toward the routine 2‑dose series, so they still need:
    • 1 dose again at 12–15 months, and
    • 1 dose at 4–6 years.

Doctors may also move the second dose earlier (any time at least 28 days after the first) if there is higher risk, such as during an outbreak.

Why not before 12 months in normal situations?

Newborns carry some temporary antibodies from pregnancy, and those gradually fade over the first months of life. Before about 12 months, these antibodies can interfere with how well the live MMR vaccine “takes,” so the immune response is weaker. That is why, for routine care and in the absence of special risks, experts recommend starting at 12–15 months rather than earlier.

If your baby is younger than 12 months and you’re worried about measles, pediatric groups recommend:

  • Making sure parents, siblings, and caregivers are fully vaccinated.
  • Avoiding travel to areas with active measles outbreaks when possible.

Quick reference table

[5][3][1] [9][7][1] [3][5][1]
Baby / child situation When they get MMR
Healthy child, routine schedule 1st dose at 12–15 months; 2nd dose at 4–6 years.
Infant 6–11 months traveling or in outbreak area Early dose at 6–11 months (extra); still needs routine 12–15 month and 4–6 year doses.
Child >12 months, unvaccinated Give 1 dose now; 2nd dose at least 28 days later.
**Important:** Always confirm timing with your child’s pediatrician, especially if your baby is under 12 months or you may travel or live in an area with measles activity.

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