Measles containing vaccines

Measles-containing vaccines are administered in a 2-dose schedule to ensure immunity among individuals who do not respond to the first dose. In countries with ongoing measles transmission, the first dose is recommended at nine months of age and the second at 15–18 months. In countries with low transmission, the first dose may be administered at 12 months, with the second dose given according to the national schedule. The minimum interval between doses is four weeks.^{Go to footnote 11}

Due to the high response rate, a single dose of rubella-containing-vaccine is sufficient for long lasting protection. A second dose is often given due to programmatic reasons and co-administration with measles, which has proven to be safe. Vaccination is recommended from nine months and can also be administered to older age groups.^{Go to footnote 22}

Mumps-containing-vaccines are typically administered in a 2-dose schedule, co-administered as MMR or MMRV. Dose schedules are dependent on the national epidemiological and vaccine programme policy. The first dose is given at 9 – 12 months of age and the second dose administered during the second year of life or at school entry. The minimum interval between doses is four weeks.^{Go to footnote 22} Routine administration of a third dose is only considered during outbreaks in populations at increased risk.^{Go to footnote 33}

Please consult the relevant position papers for varicella antigen.