Bangladesh continues to move forward in protecting its children through innovative immunisation strategies. A new study shines light on how giving a measles-rubella (MR) vaccine at 6 months of age can offer important early protection — a step in line with global efforts to reduce zero-dose and under-immunised children.

Conducted in Matlab, Bangladesh, this open-label, randomised trial studied 620 healthy infants who had never received an MR vaccine before. The infants were divided into two groups: one received two doses of MR vaccine (at 6 and 9 months), and the other received only a single dose at 9 months, following the routine immunisation schedule.

The researchers found exciting results. After receiving the first MR vaccine at 6 months, 94% of babies seroconverted for measles and 94% for rubella — meaning their immune systems responded strongly. Even better, by 11 months, after receiving their second dose at 9 months, an impressive 99% of these children achieved protection against both diseases.

In comparison, the infants who received only the standard 9-month dose also showed excellent results: 100% seroconverted for both measles and rubella by 11 months. The study also carefully monitored the safety of the vaccinations. A total of 123 minor adverse events were recorded across both groups, but most were mild, quickly resolved, and not related to the vaccine. Importantly, no major concerns linked to the MR vaccine were found during the study.

This research shows that early MR vaccination at 6 months is a safe and effective strategy, especially useful during measles outbreaks or in places where disease risk is high. It opens the door to protect even the youngest children sooner and more strongly — a crucial step toward achieving full immunisation equity in Bangladesh.

Researchers recommend that further studies should explore the long-term protection offered by the early MR dose. However, the early success already highlights Bangladesh’s leadership in creative, science-driven vaccination efforts. Bangladesh’s commitment to reaching every child, no matter their age or background, is helping to build a healthier, safer future for all. 

Reference:
Sayi TS, Sharapov UM, Matson Z, Coughlin MM, Crooke SN, An Q, et al. Immunogenicity and safety of a measles and rubella-containing vaccine at age 6 and 9 months in Bangladesh: an open-label, randomised trial. Lancet Child Adolesc Health [Internet]. 2025;9(5):306–14. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/S2352-4642(25)00090-2