Measles vaccines contain live attenuated viral strains, available either as monovalent, Measles vaccine or in combination, Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine or Measles–Mumps–Rubella–Varicella (MMRV) vaccine. Infants are usually protected against Measles for 6-9 months after birth, by the passive immunity attained through maternal antibodies. Measles vaccine is given to all infants >9 months of age and young children as a part of national immunization programs.
Recommended dosage of Measles vaccine:
- Minimum age is 9 months/270 completed days for the routine dose of monovalent measles vaccine
- The MMR first dose is given after 12 months of age ideally at 15 months, and can be given till 18 months
- The MMR second dose is given at the minimum age of 4 years, and can be given till 6 years
- All school children and adolescents who did not have natural infection, or received the vaccine earlier, should be immunized with 2 doses of MMR at 4 weeks minimum interval
Side effects of measles vaccine:
Mild reactions, like slight pain and tenderness at the site of injection, and mild fever may occur within 24 hours. Fever might peak to 39.4 °C, with a transient rash 7-12 days after vaccination, in rare cases. Febrile seizures can also accompany fever in extreme rare case.
Marketed Measles Products
Here is the list of WHO pre-qualified vaccine products available in market. Click on name of the product to know more.