03/24/2026
Given the high level of measles transmission in Utah at this time, the Utah Department of Health is now recommending an early first MMR at 6 months of age, in addition to the standard recommendation of an MMR vaccine at 12 months. It is also now recommended that toddlers receive the second MMR as soon as possible at least 1 month after the first MMR is given, rather than waiting until age 4-6 as previously recommended.
Measles is highly contagious and can cause serious complications including death, pneumonia, and encephalitis both in the immediate illness and years after a child is infected. The MMR vaccine is 97% effective at preventing measles, and is safe, with exceedingly rare serious side effects. It does not cause or increase risk of autism or developmental delay.
If you have been on the fence about vaccinating your child against measles, please vaccinate them as soon as possible.
If your child has symptoms of measles (fever, cough, runny nose, pink eyes, and a rash that starts a few days in to the illness) and is not fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR, please do not come in to the office, but call if you need to be seen, and we will evaluate your child in the car to protect the rest of our patients, including infants and those who are immunocompromised or unable to receive vaccines at this time.