Are Babies Too Young for Measles Shots?

Measles is making a dangerous comeback—and the tiniest babies are the most at risk. A new global study reveals that most infants lose natural protection by just 4 months old, long before they’re eligible for their first measles shot. With outbreaks rising fast, experts are asking: Should babies get the measles vaccine earlier? The answer could change how we protect our children forever(1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Measles Seroprevalence in Infants Under 9 Months of Age in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

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Born Protected... But Not for Long

At birth, most babies carry measles antibodies from their mothers, giving them some early protection. But that shield fades shockingly fast—dropping from 81% at birth to just 30% by 4 months. By 7 months, it’s nearly gone. That means millions of babies are exposed and unprotected during their most fragile months.

Why Wait Till 9 Months?

The current vaccine schedule starts at 9 months, as per the WHO guidelines. But by that time, 70% of babies have already lost their natural immunity. Experts are now questioning if this timeline still makes sense in today’s world, where Measles spreads faster than ever and outbreaks are harder to control.

Low-Income Nations, High-Risk Babies

In many poorer countries, healthcare systems are already stretched. Even giving the second measles dose at 15–18 months is a big challenge. Adding another dose or moving the schedule earlier sounds tough—but it could save thousands of babies from a deadly infection that hits hardest where resources are scarce.

Should We Add an Early Dose?

Studies show that a measles shot given at 4–7 months sparks a good immune response. Experts suggest either starting earlier or adding a third “early” dose. But there’s a trade-off: starting too early might reduce the vaccine’s long-term effect. Finding the sweet spot is now the big question facing global health leaders.

Outbreaks, Travel & Urgent Change

With 400,000 measles cases in 2024 alone and rising fast in 2025, it’s clear: the virus is not waiting. Countries like New Zealand now recommend a 4-month measles shot before international travel. The rest of the world may need to catch up soon—before another wave hits our most vulnerable.

References:

1. Measles Seroprevalence in Infants Under 9 Months of Age in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis- (https://academic.oup.com/jid/advance-article-abstract/doi/10.1093/infdis/jiaf177/8105657?redirectedFrom=fulltext)

Source-Murdoch Childrens Research Institute