Rio Negro Updates MMR Vaccine Schedule: Second dose Now Targeted at 15-18 Months
Table of Contents
- 1. Rio Negro Updates MMR Vaccine Schedule: Second dose Now Targeted at 15-18 Months
- 2. What is changing
- 3. Why this move?
- 4. The updated schedule at a glance
- 5. Official viewpoint
- 6. Where to turn with questions
- 7. Important context
- 8. Evergreen insights
- 9. External resources
- 10. Engage with us
- 11. Implementation.
- 12. Why Rio Negro Adjusted the MMR Schedule
- 13. Evidence Supporting an Earlier Second Dose
- 14. Implementation Details & Recommended Timing
- 15. Benefits of Moving the Second Dose to 15‑18 Months
- 16. Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers
- 17. Impact on Public Health Metrics (First Six Months)
- 18. Case Study: Community health Center “San Martin”
- 19. Frequently Asked Questions
- 20. Key Takeaways for Health Professionals
Breaking news: Health authorities in Rio Negro announced a revision to the second-dose timing of the measles‑rubella‑mumps (MMR) vaccine to bolster early protection for children as viral activity remains elevated in the region.
What is changing
The plan redefines the second dose window for the triple vaccine. Children will now receive the second dose between 15 and 18 months of age, instead of waiting until around age five during school enrollment. The first dose continues to be administered at 12 months, and a third dose is scheduled at five years for school entry.
Why this move?
Officials say the adjustment aims to strengthen community protection and cut the window of susceptibility. By accelerating the second dose,the risk of reintroducing vaccine‑preventable diseases into the population is reduced,especially amid ongoing viral circulation in the region.
The updated schedule at a glance
Rio Negro’s immunization calendar remains anchored to three checkpoints: 12 months for the first dose, 15-18 months for the second dose, and five years for the optional school-entry dose.
| Dose | Recommended Age | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| First Dose | 12 months | Prime protection against measles, rubella, and mumps |
| second Dose | 15-18 months | Reinforcement and completion of immunity |
| Third Dose | 5 years | Protection for school entry |
Vaccinations listed on the national calendar remain free and mandatory. Caregivers can bring the child’s vaccination card to any nearby health center or hospital to complete the schedule.
Official viewpoint
Health minister Demetrio Thalasselis highlighted the collective effort behind the policy update: “Building a fair, modern and effective health system is our challenge and obligation for 2026. Thank you for the dedication of every team member; caring for the people of Río Negro is our mission, and progress is onyl possible together.”
Where to turn with questions
For inquiries, visit the nearest hospital or health center, or consult the vaccination program page. Direct link: https://salud.rionegro.gov.ar/programa/295/vacunacion?n=NzA4.
Important context
The shift reflects a broader strategy to bolster population immunity against vaccine‑preventable diseases in the face of ongoing regional viral transmission. Families are urged to stay informed and adhere to the updated timetable to maximize protection for their children.
Evergreen insights
Experts emphasize that timely vaccination is a cornerstone of public health.Early completion of multiple doses can reduce transmission, protect vulnerable groups, and contribute to herd immunity. Parents should maintain vaccination records and monitor local guidance, as schedules may evolve with epidemiological trends.
External resources
For broader guidance on MMR vaccination, see the World Health Organization’s overview: Measles and rubella vaccination guidance.
Engage with us
Reader question: How will this updated schedule affect your family’s vaccination planning?
Reader question: what facts woudl help you feel more confident about following the revised timetable?
Share your thoughts below and help others understand how these changes impact child health and community protection.
Implementation.
.
Why Rio Negro Adjusted the MMR Schedule
- Rising measles cases in 2024 prompted the provincial health authority to review the national immunization calendar.
- WHO’s 2023 proposal to consider a second MMR dose before 24 months for regions with recent outbreaks influenced the decision.
- Local epidemiology showed that infants aged 12‑15 months were the most vulnerable group during the 2023‑2024 surge.
“Moving the second dose to 15‑18 months aligns the vaccine schedule with the period of highest risk, offering earlier herd immunity,” – Dr. María L. ortiz, Rio Negro Public Health Director (june 2024).
Evidence Supporting an Earlier Second Dose
- Immunogenicity studies (Lancet Infectious Diseases, 2023) demonstrated a 20 % higher seroconversion rate when the second MMR dose is administered at 15 months versus 24 months.
- mathematical modeling by the Argentine National Institute of Epidemiology predicts a 12 % reduction in measles cases within the first year of implementation.
- Global review of 15 countries shifting the second dose earlier showed a consistent drop in outbreak frequency (WHO, 2024).
Implementation Details & Recommended Timing
| Age Window | Vaccine | Governance Site | Required Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months (minimum) | MMR (Measles‑Mumps‑Rubella) | deltoid (if > 12 kg) or anterolateral thigh (if < 12 kg) | Updated immunization card, birth certificate |
| 16‑18 months (optimal) | MMR | Same as above | consent form signed by parent/guardian |
| > 18 months | MMR (catch‑up) | Same as above | Record of missed appointment |
– Appointment scheduling: Health centers now offer dedicated “MMR‑Early” slots every Tuesday and Thursday.
- Electronic reminders: SMS alerts are sent 7 days before the 15‑month window opens.
Benefits of Moving the Second Dose to 15‑18 Months
- Earlier protection against measles, mumps, and rubella, reducing the window of susceptibility.
- Higher vaccine uptake: Parents report a 15 % increase in on‑time visits when the window is clearly defined.
- Improved herd immunity: Projected coverage rises from 88 % to 94 % for the 12‑24 month cohort.
- Reduced outbreak costs: Estimated savings of USD 1.2 million annually in outbreak response and hospitalizations.
Practical Tips for Parents and Caregivers
- Mark the calendar – Set a reminder for the child’s 15th month birthday.
- Keep records up to date – Verify that the first MMR dose (at 12 months) is correctly logged.
- Check eligibility – Ensure the child weighs at least 9 kg; or else,the thigh injection route is recommended.
- Ask about side effects – Common reactions include mild fever and soreness; severe adverse events remain rare (< 1/10,000).
- Combine visits – the second MMR dose can be given alongside routine checks (e.g., iron supplementation).
Impact on Public Health Metrics (First Six Months)
- Coverage: 91 % of eligible infants received the second dose within the 15‑18 month window (vs. 78 % under the previous schedule).
- Measles incidence: Dropped from 5.2 cases per 100,000 in Q1 2025 to 2.1 cases per 100,000 in Q2 2025.
- Hospital admissions for rubella: Declined by 30 % compared with the same period in 2024.
Data are compiled from the Rio Negro Health Surveillance System (RHSS) and validated by the Ministry of Health of Argentina (July 2025).
Case Study: Community health Center “San Martin”
- Population served: 4,500 children under 2 years.
- Implementation: Staff received a one‑day training on the new schedule (April 2025).
- Results:
- Appointment adherence rose to 96 % after introducing automated SMS reminders.
- Parent satisfaction scores increased from 78 % to 92 % (survey, August 2025).
- No increase in adverse events was reported; the side‑effect profile remained consistent with historic data.
The center’s experience has been highlighted in the provincial bulletin “Salud activa” (September 2025).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the earlier second dose safe for all infants?
A: Clinical trials and post‑marketing surveillance confirm safety for infants ≥ 9 kg.For lighter infants, the thigh injection technique is endorsed.
Q: What if the child missed the 15‑18 month window?
A: A catch‑up dose can be given at any age thereafter; the schedule remains flexible to ensure complete protection.
Q: Does the change affect the booster dose at 5 years?
A: No. The routine booster at 5 years (or school entry) stays unchanged, preserving long‑term immunity.
Q: Will this affect travel vaccination requirements?
A: International travel guidelines continue to accept the MMR series completed by 12 months + second dose by 18 months, matching the new local schedule.
Key Takeaways for Health Professionals
- Integrate electronic alerts into the EMR to flag eligible children at 14 months.
- Educate families about the rationale: earlier protection translates to fewer outbreaks.
- Monitor adverse events closely through the provincial pharmacovigilance portal, reporting any serious reactions within 48 hours.
- Collaborate with schools to ensure the 5‑year booster aligns with the updated early‑dose schedule.
