Babies Under 1 Typically Don’t Get the Measles Vaccine. Can They Get a Dose Early?
The first dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is usually given when children are 12 to 15 months old, but some doctors and parents are considering earlier doses due to a surge in measles cases across the U.S.
In the first three months of 2025 alone, more measles cases have been reported than in all of 2024. With over 420 cases concentrated in West Texas, spreading into New Mexico and Oklahoma, concerns over early vaccination are rising.
Early Vaccination: A Protective Measure
Vaccination remains the most effective defense against infection, yet the standard schedule leaves children under 1 vulnerable. Parents are now opting for early doses to safeguard their infants, especially those traveling to high-risk areas.
Dr. Ana Montanez, a pediatrician at Texas Tech Physicians in Lubbock, reports a doubling of MMR vaccine administration in recent months.
According to CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics, children as young as 6 months can receive an early dose if they:
- Live in or are traveling to an outbreak-affected area
- Are traveling internationally
- Have potential exposure risks
What Experts Say About Early MMR Doses
Dr. Shilpa Patel, a pediatrician at Hackensack Meridian Health, explains that an early dose before 12 months is considered a “bonus dose”—it doesn’t replace the standard two-dose regimen.
“You still need two doses after the age of 12 months,” Patel emphasized.
Dr. Montanez further clarified, “At this early developmental stage, a child’s immune system isn’t fully developed to retain lifelong immunity with just one dose.”
Domestic Travel Concerns and Changing Recommendations
Previously, early doses were primarily recommended for international travelers. However, doctors are now considering them for domestic travel to high-risk areas, such as:
- Texas (current outbreak epicenter)
- Florida (Disney World), known for past outbreaks
- Other high-traffic states with active cases
Parents like Don Gibson, 36, had to reconsider travel plans after an outbreak in Texas coincided with their planned April wedding trip. His pediatrician offered an early second dose for his 2-year-old and an early first dose for his 4-month-old upon reaching 6 months. Ultimately, the family canceled the trip due to concerns.
Some experts are calling for a flexible third dose in outbreak-affected areas. A recent JAMA article, co-authored by former CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky, proposed officially recommending an additional MMR dose for high-risk domestic travel.
Insurance Uncertainty for Early Vaccination
One major hurdle remains: insurance coverage.
Dr. Montanez noted that many Medicaid patients get vaccines covered under state programs like Texas Vaccines for Children, but since early doses fall outside standard schedules, it’s unclear whether they will be reimbursed.
Ultimately, the decision rests with parents.
“If you want an early dose, you are welcome to do so,” Montanez said. “But if you prefer to wait, that’s also fine.”
Measles Prevention and Health Choices
As measles cases rise, proactive steps are being taken to protect infants and vulnerable individuals. Just as consumers carefully select their vaping products, like the Tyson 2.0 Vape and Mike Tyson Vapes, ensuring they meet their preferences and needs, parents must make informed decisions about early vaccination.
With Tyson 2.0 Round 2 revolutionizing the vaping market, similarly, medical recommendations may need updates to reflect emerging health challenges like the resurgence of measles.
