From the Guidelines
The second measles vaccine is given at 4-6 years of age in Alberta. This recommendation is based on the most recent and relevant guideline evidence, which suggests that the second dose of MMR vaccine should be administered at 4-6 years of age, provided that at least 4 weeks have elapsed since the first dose and both doses are administered beginning at or after age 12 months 1. The first dose is typically given at 12 months of age, and the second dose provides additional protection by ensuring immunity for those who may not have developed adequate protection after the first dose. Two doses of the measles vaccine are approximately 97% effective at preventing measles infection.
- The timing of the second dose aligns with the critical period before children enter the school environment where disease transmission can occur more readily due to close contact with many other children.
- The second dose is not a booster but rather an opportunity to develop immunity for the small percentage of individuals who did not respond to the first dose.
- Although an earlier study suggested a similar recommendation 1, the more recent study 1 provides the most up-to-date guidance on the optimal timing for the second measles vaccine dose.
From the Research
Age for Second Measles Vaccine in Alberta
There is no direct information provided in the studies about the age at which the second measles vaccine is given in Alberta. However, the studies provide information on the general recommendations for the administration of the second dose of measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
General Recommendations
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends routine administration of the second dose of MMR vaccine at school entry (4 to 6 years of age) 2.
- The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends 2 doses of MMR vaccine routinely for children with the first dose administered at age 12 through 15 months and the second dose administered at age 4 through 6 years before school entry 3.
- A phase III, observer-blind, randomized, safety and immunogenicity study compared GSK MMR and MMR II with and without DTaP-IPV and varicella vaccines co-administration in healthy four-to-six-year-old children, which is consistent with the recommended age for the second dose of MMR vaccine 4.
Key Points
- The second dose of MMR vaccine is generally recommended to be administered at 4 to 6 years of age.
- The ACIP recommends 2 doses of MMR vaccine for children, with the second dose administered before school entry.
- There is no specific information provided about the age for the second measles vaccine in Alberta, but the general recommendations suggest that it is typically administered at 4 to 6 years of age.