Can I Get the Second MMR Vaccine Dose After 25 Days?

The MMR vaccine is administered in two doses, with the second dose typically given at least 28 days after the first dose?

Hello Doctor: During the administration of the first dose, the physician mentioned that the second dose should be given one month apart.
Since I can only attend evening clinics due to work and there have been a few nights when the physician is unavailable, I would like to know if it is acceptable to receive the second dose after 25 days? Thank you!

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/04

Dr. Chen Taicheng reply Family Medicine

● Generally, the second dose should be administered at least 28 days apart; for example, the second dose of MMR can be shortened by four days at the minimum, but if it exceeds five days, that dose will be considered invalid.
● Given your situation, receiving the vaccine 25 days apart should be acceptable.
However, it is still recommended that if time allows, you should postpone the vaccination for more than a month.
Wishing you good health, Dr.
Chen Tai-Cheng from the Family Medicine Department of Taoyuan Hospital is concerned about you~

Reply Date: 2017/07/04

More Info

Yes, you can receive the second dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine after 25 days, although it is generally recommended to wait at least 28 days between doses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines suggest that the second dose of the MMR vaccine should ideally be administered at least 28 days after the first dose. However, if you are unable to wait the full 28 days, receiving the second dose after 25 days is acceptable and will still provide you with protection against these diseases.

The MMR vaccine is a combination vaccine that protects against three serious viral infections: measles, mumps, and rubella. The first dose is typically given to children between 12 and 15 months of age, with the second dose administered between 4 and 6 years of age. However, for older children, adolescents, and adults who have not been vaccinated or are unsure of their vaccination status, the MMR vaccine can be given at any time, with the two doses spaced at least 28 days apart.

It's important to note that while the timing of the second dose is flexible, the effectiveness of the vaccine can be maximized by adhering to the recommended schedule. The immune response to the vaccine is generally stronger when the doses are spaced appropriately. If you receive the second dose earlier than recommended, it is unlikely to cause any harm, but it may not provide the optimal immune response.

In addition, if you have any concerns about the timing of your vaccinations or if you experience any adverse reactions after receiving the vaccine, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and any potential risks.

In summary, while the ideal recommendation is to wait at least 28 days between doses of the MMR vaccine, receiving the second dose after 25 days is permissible. Your health and safety are paramount, so if you have any lingering questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further guidance. Vaccination is a crucial step in preventing outbreaks of measles, mumps, and rubella, and ensuring that you are fully vaccinated is an important part of maintaining public health.

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