why do we need second dose for measles mmr vaccine

Answer 1

We need a second dose of the measles-MMR vaccine for a few reasons:

1. Increased effectiveness: One dose of the vaccine provides around 93% protection against measles, while two doses provide around 97% protection. The second dose helps to boost the immune response and ensure a higher level of protection.

2. Long-term immunity: The second dose of the vaccine helps to create a stronger and longer-lasting immune response. It reinforces the immune system's memory of the virus, providing lifelong protection against measles for most individuals.

3. Outbreak prevention: Due to the highly contagious nature of measles, it is important to have a high vaccination coverage rate in the community to prevent outbreaks. The second dose helps to ensure that more people are adequately protected, reducing the potential for transmission and outbreaks.

4. Vaccine failure: In some cases, the first dose of the vaccine may not provide sufficient protection due to factors such as a weak immune response or improper storage of the vaccine. The second dose acts as a backup, providing another opportunity for individuals to develop immunity if they did not respond adequately to the first dose.

Overall, the second dose of the measles-MMR vaccine is important for maximizing protection against measles, reducing the risk of outbreaks, and ensuring long-term immunity for individuals and the community.