Protecting Young Infants From Measles.

Abstract

* Abbreviation: MMR — : measles-mumps-rubella vaccine In this issue of Pediatrics by Science et al,1 measles antibody levels were assessed in a cross-sectional sample of infants in Ontario, Canada, where endemic measles transmission has been eliminated since 1998. Antibody levels waned quickly, and all infants were considered susceptible to measles by age 6 months. The increased susceptibility to measles among younger infants in an elimination setting is not surprising and has been noted previously. Measles vaccine–induced maternal antibodies result in lower levels of passively acquired antibodies in infants.2,3 However, as the authors state, this leaves infants potentially susceptible to measles until they are old enough to receive the vaccine. In light of increasing measles outbreaks during the past year reaching levels not recorded in the United States since 1992 and increased measles elsewhere,4,5 coupled with the risk of severe illness in infants, there is increased concern regarding the protection of infants against measles. Current recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices allow measles vaccination as early as 6 months for infants who plan to travel internationally, infants with ongoing risk for exposure during measles outbreaks, and as postexposure prophylaxis.6 For routine vaccination, … Address correspondence to Walter A. Orenstein, MD, Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University School of Medicine, 1462 Clifton Rd NE, Suite 446, Atlanta, GA 30322. E-mail: worenst{at}emory.edu