Measles vaccine was introduced in the United States (US) in 1963. Before a vaccine was available, nearly everyone would acquire measles infection during childhood and more than 90% of persons were immune from measles by age 15 years, because of past infection. Since the licensure of measles-containing vaccine in the US, incidence of measles has decreased by over 99%. Outbreaks of measles have been more common in recent years, and most cases occur in people who are unvaccinated. 

The US is currently experiencing significant measles outbreaks, with cases across several states. The AAP Vaccination Across America Map is updated weekly with locations experiencing outbreaks and current case numbers. The maps also displays immunization rates by state and the Community Immunity Threshold (CIT)s. The CIT for measles is about 92-94%. This means that 92-94% of the population need to be immune to measles (through vaccination or previous infection) to prevent/limit spread of measles infections in their community. See how your state immunization rates compare to the CIT by using this tool. 

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The AAP’s Recommendations for Measles Vaccination

The AAP recommends routine vaccination against measles and early vaccination during special circumstances.  

Measles-containing vaccines can be administered simultaneously with other immunizations in a separate syringe at a separate site and should be administered subcutaneously. 

Routine Vaccination

The AAP recommends individuals receive 2 doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) or measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine. Routine timing for these vaccines are at the following ages 

  • Dose 1: 12 – 15 months
  • Dose 2: 4 – 6 years 

The minimum interval is 28 days for MMR and 90 days for MMRV.  

Vaccination prior to international travel or during a community outbreak 

Infants aged 6 through 11 months should receive one dose of MMR vaccine before departure, ideally at least 2 weeks prior to travel. Doses received prior to the first birthday do not count toward the recommended 2-dose series. MMRV should not be administered to children <12 months of age. 

For additional guidance on post-exposure prophylaxis, visit the Red Book Measles Chapter. 

Available Measles Vaccines

Two types of vaccines are available for measles prevention in the United States; both are live-attenuated vaccines. 

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. There are two vaccine products licensed for use in the US. Both are licensed for persons ages 12 months and older (although the vaccine can be used in children as young as 6 months – see recommendations above). The recommendations for these vaccines are the same and they can be used interchangeably.  

  • M-M-R II® is a combination measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine manufactured by Merck & Co, Inc. It was licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in 2009.
  • PRIORIX® is a combination measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals (GSK). It was licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in 2011. 

Both vaccines are safe and common side effects include: 

  • Sore arm from the injection or redness where the shot is given
  • Fever
  • A mild rash 

Measles, Mumps, Rubella & Varicella (MMRV) Vaccine 

ProQuad® is a combination measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) vaccine, licensed for person ages 12 months – 12 years. MMRV should not be given to children younger than 12 months.  

Common side effects after MMRV vaccine may include: 

  • Sore arm from the injection, 
  • redness where the shot is given, 
  • fever, 
  • a mild rash  

Less often swelling of the glands in the cheeks or neck or temporary pain and stiffness in the joints sometimes occur after MMRV vaccination. 

Seizures, often associated with fever, can happen after MMRV vaccine and are more common in children age 12-23 months in the days after MMRV vaccine compared with MMR vaccine. Providers who are considering administering MMRV vaccine should discuss the benefits and risks of both vaccination options with parents or caregivers.  

More serious reactions happen rarely, including temporary low platelet count, which can cause unusual bleeding or bruising. In people with serious immune system problems, this vaccine may cause an infection that may be life-threatening. People with serious immune system problems should not get MMRV vaccine. 

Measles-containing Vaccine Storage

Improperly stored vaccine may fail to protect against measles. For recommended storage of MMR and MMRV vaccines, see the manufacturers’ package labels. MMRV vaccine must be stored frozen between –58°F and +5°F. Visit the AAP Vaccine Storage and Handling page for more information.  

Professional Tools and Resources

Childhood Immunization Discussion Guides
View speaking points for clinicians and share family-friendly infographics, while communicating about measles-containing vaccines. Look for the pages on MMR(V) and Combination Vaccines. 

Communicating with Families and Promoting Vaccine Confidence 
You are families’ most trusted source of immunization information. Use these resources to communicate effectively. 

Administering Immunizations in Your Practice 
Safely and efficiently administer on-time immunizations to children with these AAP resources. 

Resources for Families

MMR Vaccine Information Statement
Access the MMR VIS – immunizers are required to provide this when vaccinating with MMR vaccine. 

MMRV Vaccine Information Statement 
Access the MMRV VIS – immunizers are required to provide this when vaccinating with MMRV vaccine. 

Protecting Your Baby From a Measles Outbreak: FAQs 
Share this article with parents in your practice to help increase their knowledge about how they can keep their baby safe during an outbreak.  

MMR Vaccine: What You Need to Know 
Help parents learn more about the MMR vaccine and possible side effects. 

Stop the Measles! 
Download the IVY and Bean Coloring/Comic Book to help families learn more about vaccinating against measles. 

When should the measles vaccine be given early? 
Share this article, which answers common questions parents have about then children should receive their first vaccinations against measles and when it is important to get them vaccinated for travel or local outbreaks. 

Last Updated

04/23/2025

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics