Page "Measles" Paragraph 24

In developed countries, most children are immunized against measles by the age of 18 months, generally as part of a three-part MMR vaccine ( measles, mumps, and rubella ).

The vaccination is generally not given earlier than this because children younger than 18 months usually retain antimeasles immunoglobulins ( antibodies ) transmitted from the mother during pregnancy.

A second dose is usually given to children between the ages of four and five, to increase rates of immunity.

Vaccination rates have been high enough to make measles relatively uncommon.

Even a single case in a college dormitory or similar setting is often met with a local vaccination program, in case any of the people exposed are not already immune.