MMR - having a second booster?

[spenny]

My daughter had her MMR at 12 months and then a booster a few months later as recommended by our doctors during the 2008/09 measles outbreak in Southwark. She's now 4 and I've had conflicting advice as to whether she needs another (pre-school) booster. One nurse had thought not, but another nurse and a doctor have both said she probably does. I'd be really interested to hear what other parents have done.

[nunheadmum]

My daughter had the same (1 MMR at 12 months and another shot a few months later) and is now 3.5yrs and due her pre-school booster. I was talking about it with the practice nurse as I booked the appointment and she confirmed that she's had her 2 shots of MMR so only needs the 1 pre-school booster which is the multiple deptheria/tetanus/polio one.

Maybe those you are speaking to are confusing the different jabs?

[Fuschia]

The second dose isn't a booster but is intended to capture those children who didnt respond to the first dose

[Saffron]

Yes, that's my understanding of the MMR as well. Some children don't respond (or produce a very low response) to the first immunization. Therefor the second MMR is meant to improve "blanket" immunity within the community, as well as catch those children who require a second jab for full immunity. A third MMR in the pre-school years shouldn't be necessary.

(Sometimes an MMR booster is recommended between 12-15 years old, esp'y if you are in an area where there has been a measles outbreak, b/c it has been found that immunity may have waned by the teen years for some individuals.)

[spenny]

Thanks very much for your responses. It's helpful. I thought I was discussing the MMR booster with the various doctors and nurses I've spoken too, but perhaps I have got the boosters muddled up. Hope so. Feel v nervous about 4yo having yet another MMR jab.

[Fuschia]

Spenny, I think the takeup of the earlier booster is a bit patchy

They may not realise she had it!