If you are a parent, you probably have many questions about your child's vaccinations. You may be wondering when MMR is given or how many shots your child will need.
In most cases, the MMR (
measles,
mumps, and
rubella) vaccine, officially known as M-M-R
® II, is given as two injections. The first one is typically given when a child is between the ages of 12 and 15 months. The second one generally comes a few years later, just before the child starts elementary school.
In some cases, the second shot is unnecessary, as it is only given to provide immunity in people who failed to respond to the first dose. Blood tests known as "titers" can show if someone is immune to measles, mumps, or rubella. If you can show through these blood tests that your child is immune, your child may be able to skip the second MMR dose.
(For a closer look at when and how this vaccine is given, click MMR Dosage. This article also offers information for people who want to use individual vaccines instead of the combination product.)
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