At what age should children receive their first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine?

Children should receive their first dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine between the ages of 12 to 15 months. This timing is important because, prior to 12 months, infants still have some passive immunity from maternal antibodies, which can interfere with the effectiveness of the vaccine. By administering the MMR vaccine at 12 to 15 months, health care providers ensure that the vaccine is more effective in eliciting a strong immune response and providing long-term protection against these diseases.

The timing aligns with public health guidelines aimed at protecting young children from measles, mumps, and rubella, which can have serious complications. Therefore, administering the MMR vaccine at this age is crucial for both individual health and community immunity.