Why do we wait 12 months before vaccinating newborns against measles?

Dear reader,

Many women of childbearing age today have had measles naturally, developing antibodies that are passed to their babies during pregnancy. In the first months of life, the babies of these women receive some protection against measles thanks to these specific antibodies. These antibodies, however, can reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine if administered too early, as the infant's immune system would not be able to respond optimally. This is why measles vaccination is usually scheduled after 12 months, when maternal antibodies have decreased and the vaccine can stimulate strong and long-lasting protection in the child.

In specific situations (such as travel to countries where measles is still widespread or in the event of an outbreak), an early dose may be recommended as early as 6 months of age. In these cases, however, vaccination should be repeated after one year of age, as the first early dose may not be sufficient to ensure long-lasting protection.

In short, the measles vaccine should be given until 12 months of age because before then, the child may still have maternal antibodies that reduce the vaccine's effectiveness.

* Susanna Esposito is a full professor of Pediatrics, director of the Pediatric Clinic at the University Hospital of Parma, and coordinator of the Infectious Diseases Technical Table of the Italian Society of Pediatrics (SIP).

The information provided is intended for informational purposes only: it does not constitute medical advice and cannot replace the diagnosis or treatment recommended by your doctor or specialist.