Recommended Vaccine Schedule for Flu and MMR in Young Children

Influenza vaccine and MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine?

The child is currently 1 year and 3 months old and has received the first dose of the influenza vaccine.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine has not been administered yet.
Please advise on the following:
1.
What is the recommended order for administering the first and second doses of the influenza vaccine and the MMR vaccine?
2.
What is the recommended interval between these three vaccinations? Is it necessary to wait one month between different vaccines, or is a two-week interval acceptable?

Cynthia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/10/22

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Dear Cynthia,
Hello! The influenza vaccine is an inactivated vaccine, while the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is a live attenuated vaccine.
Inactivated vaccines and live vaccines can be administered simultaneously or at any interval without an increased risk of side effects.
Of course, for children under eight years old receiving the influenza vaccine for the first time, two doses are required, with the first and second doses spaced at least 28 days apart.
As long as you follow these guidelines, you can administer the vaccines to your baby as you wish.
Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Ren-Sheng Pei
Director of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2007/10/22

More Info

When it comes to vaccinations for young children, it's essential to follow the recommended schedules to ensure optimal immunity against various diseases. In your case, your child is currently 1 year and 3 months old and has received the first dose of the flu vaccine but has not yet received the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. Here’s a detailed response to your questions regarding the recommended vaccine schedule for flu and MMR in young children.

1. Recommended Order of Vaccination
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidelines for vaccinations, including the flu and MMR vaccines. For your child, the recommended order of vaccination would be as follows:
- Flu Vaccine: Since your child has already received the first dose of the flu vaccine, the second dose should be administered. The flu vaccine is typically given annually, and children under 9 years old who are receiving the flu vaccine for the first time require two doses, spaced at least 4 weeks apart.

- MMR Vaccine: The first dose of the MMR vaccine is recommended between 12 to 15 months of age, with a second dose given between 4 to 6 years of age. Since your child is already over 12 months, you can schedule the MMR vaccine as soon as possible, ideally after the second flu dose.

2. Recommended Intervals Between Vaccinations
Regarding the intervals between the flu and MMR vaccinations, the CDC guidelines state that:
- Flu Vaccine: The second dose of the flu vaccine should be given at least 4 weeks after the first dose.
- MMR Vaccine: There is no minimum interval required between the flu vaccine and the MMR vaccine. They can be administered on the same day or at any time before or after each other. However, if they are given on the same day, they should be administered in different injection sites.

Summary of the Vaccination Schedule
Based on the above information, here’s a suggested vaccination schedule for your child:
1. Flu Vaccine (Second Dose): Schedule this as soon as possible, ensuring it is at least 4 weeks after the first dose.

2. MMR Vaccine: This can be administered at the same visit as the second flu dose or shortly thereafter. There is no need to wait a month between these two vaccines.

Additional Considerations
- Consult with Your Pediatrician: It’s always best to discuss your child’s vaccination schedule with your pediatrician. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your child’s health history and any other vaccinations that may be due.

- Monitoring for Side Effects: After vaccination, monitor your child for any potential side effects. Common side effects for the flu vaccine include soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever, or mild fatigue. For the MMR vaccine, side effects may include a mild rash or fever, typically occurring 7 to 12 days after vaccination.

- Importance of Vaccination: Vaccinations are crucial in protecting children from serious diseases. The flu can lead to severe complications, and MMR protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, which can have serious health consequences.

In conclusion, ensure that your child receives the second flu vaccine as soon as the interval allows, and schedule the MMR vaccine accordingly. Keeping up with vaccinations is vital for your child's health and the health of those around them.

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