KEYWORDS:
measles, second dose, immunization coverage

BACKGROUND:
In 1998, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended states ensure that all children in grades kindergarten through 12 receive two doses of measles, mumps, rubella vaccine (MMR) by 2001.

OBJECTIVE:
Assess progress toward the goal of all children in grades kindergarten through 12 receiving two doses of MMR vaccine

METHOD:
In 2000, the National Immunization Program surveyed states, the District of Columbia, and 8 territories, commonwealths, and protectorates of the United States.

RESULT:
Almost all (98%, 53/54) respondents reported a second dose requirement for entry to elementary school, middle school, or both. By the fall of 2001 most (82%) school-aged children in the U.S. were in grades requiring a second dose of measles vaccine. For 29 responding programs, the requirement did not yet impact all grades. By 2009, 52 of 54 responding programs will require a second dose for all grades.

CONCLUSION:
While not all states have achieved coverage of all school children with 2 doses of MMR, most states are well on their way toward this goal.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Conference attendees will be able to describe progress toward the goal of all children in grades kindergarten through 12 receiving two doses of MMR vaccine.