Why Measles Immunisation for Children Requires More Than One Dose

JAKARTA — Paediatric specialist and infectious disease consultant Prof Dr Anggraini Alam has emphasised the importance of complete measles immunisation for children. According to her, measles vaccination must be administered three times to ensure optimal antibody formation.

“So measles immunisation is given three times. Why repeatedly? Because it is to weaken the virus, which of course requires appropriate doses and repetition so that antibody levels can be high and children are protected against measles,” said Prof Anggraini during a virtual discussion on Saturday (28 February 2026).

Prof Anggraini also responded to circulating myths regarding vaccines, such as claims that the MMR vaccine causes autism. According to her, this claim is outdated and lacks scientific basis.

“There are already four major studies involving up to 23 million children, including research in Denmark with 500,000 to 1.25 million children. All show there is no link between measles vaccine and autism. This myth originated from a 1998 study that was later retracted,” she said.

She also dismissed the assumption held by some members of the public who are reluctant to be vaccinated and rely only on natural immunity. Prof Anggraini reminded that measles complications can be very severe and can even cause death.

“If someone says they don’t want to be vaccinated, well, everyone knows that measles complications are very serious. So the safest approach is to complete measles immunisation,” said Prof Anggraini.