The measles vaccine protects children from measles

What the research found

Australian government guidance says vaccination is a safe and effective way to protect against measles. It says the first dose is 96% effective and the second dose is 99% effective. Children who still catch measles after vaccination have less risk of serious illness and hospitalisation.

A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis looked at measles vaccine effectiveness in African children. A 2018 review described measles vaccine as safe and efficacious. It also noted that protection is linked to antibody levels, and that controlling measles needs high levels of immunity across the whole population.

A 2021 Cochrane review looked at the combined measles, mumps, rubella vaccine in children up to 15 years. It noted the vaccine's almost universal use and accepted effectiveness. A 2021 safety review found high-strength evidence of no increased autism risk after MMR vaccine.

What it doesn’t mean

• No vaccine is perfect. Two doses give the best protection, and Australian guidance recommends them at 12 and 18 months. Vaccination also reduces the risk of severe illness if a child does catch measles.
• Mild reactions are common, such as fever, a faint rash or a sore arm. The 2021 safety review found high-strength evidence of an increased risk of febrile seizures with MMR vaccine.
• Measles vaccine is not suitable for everyone, including people who are pregnant, immunocompromised or have had anaphylaxis to a previous dose. Talk to your GP or child health nurse if you are unsure about your child.