12 | 26 | 2007 Posted By Regan Zambri & Long

Hib Vaccine Recalled, Shortage Looming

Merck & Co., Inc. has announced a voluntary recall of two of its Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) vaccines, PedvaxHIB® (monovalent Hib vaccine) and COMVAX® (Hib/hepatitis B vaccine), and won't resume distribution until the fourth quarter of 2008.  The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is warning that as a result, pharmaceutical manufacturers likely will not be able to provide adequate Hib vaccine to inoculate all children for whom the vaccine is recommended during the following year.

The vaccines subject to recall were shipped to medical facilities after April 2007, but pose no threat to the public health, and there have been no reports of any adverse symptoms related to the recalled immunization.  The recall was initiated following the discovery of an equipment issue that could have caused microorganisms to survive one step in the vaccine sterilization process. Merck reports that it hasn't uncovered any truly contaminated vaccines, but has recalled some vaccines as a precautionary measure.

The Hib vaccine protects kids from meningitis and other serious infections like pneumonia, pericarditis, and infections of the blood, bones, and joints caused by the bacteria.

According to the CDC, the recommended vaccination schedule for all available Hib-containing vaccines is a primary series (of 2 or 3 doses, depending on the formulation) administered beginning at age 2 months, and a booster dose at age 12–15 months.  As a result of this disruption in the supply of the vaccine, the CDC is recommending that physicians temporarily cease administering the vaccine booster dose that is typically given at age 12 - 15 months, except for high-risk children.  Children at increased risk for Hib include those with sickle cell disease, leukemia, malignant cancers, HIV and certain other immunocompromising conditions, those whose spleens have been removed, and also American Indian and Alaska Native children. Vaccinating these children according to the recommended schedule is a high priority.

For questions about the safety and availability of the Hib vaccines for your child, please contact your child's physician.  

Previously on the DC Metro Area Medical Malpractice Law Blog, we have posted articles related to:

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