Can Babies & Young Kids Get The MMR Vaccine Early?

With more and more cases of measles in the news, parents may be wondering if their baby or toddler can get the first or second dose of the MMR vaccine early. Babies ages 6 through 11 months old can receive the first MMR dose early and they should if traveling internationally or they live in an area with an outbreak. For older children, the second dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended at school entry around age 4 through 6, but it can be administered early if it has been at least 28 days since the first dose. Talk to your child’s pediatrician with questions about your family’s situation. They can help you decide if your child should be vaccinated early.