Why is the mmr vaccine given after 12 months? we're going abroad and they recommend i give it to my 6 months old, but i am scared of the side effects.

If going abroad..: The reason why the cdc recommended it at 6mo if going abroad is because in europe (france especially) there has been a massive outbreak of measles (parents aren't vaccinating their kids). Your 6mo old is going to be on a plane with international travelers who will be sick, coughing, and spreading germs. It is very contagious. You do not want your baby to get measles.

Better protection : Research on the vaccine has shown that it is not as effective if given under a year of age. But if there is a serious risk of exposure, such as in europe, it is better to vaccinate, because the vaccine may work.The risks of fever and/or rash are insignificant compared to the risk of the disease.

Potency: The timing of vaccines is based on when they can give the most long term benefit to the population.The basic issue with the MMR is thought to be the lingering influence of maternally passed (pregnancy) immunoglobulins which can diminish the ability of that vaccine to give lifelong benefit.When given at 6m, a repeat after a year is recommended.