DIPHTHERIA TETANUS,HAEMOPHIL,HEPATITIS-B,PERTUSSIS,POLIYOMYELITIS
Background and Date of Approval
This combination vaccine protects against diphtheria, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type b, hepatitis B, pertussis, and poliomyelitis. It has been approved by the U.S. FDA for this indication.
Uses
Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis is used to protect your child against Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, and Poliomyelitis. Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection that mainly affects the airways and sometimes the skin. The airways become swollen, causing serious breathing problems and sometimes suffocation. Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani. It can cause muscle stiffness and spasms. Haemophil (Hib) is a bacterium that can cause severe infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and throat infections, especially in young children. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver. It can lead to chronic liver disease and increase the risk of liver cancer. Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by Bordetella pertussis. Poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio, is a viral infection that can cause paralysis and muscle weakness.
How is it administered?
The Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis is administered as an injection, given in the upper thigh (for infants and young children) or the upper arm (for older children). The primary schedule consists of three doses given at 2, 4, and 6 months of age, followed by booster doses in the second year of life.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis are nausea, vomiting, headache, hair loss, weakness, fever, chills, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, inflammation diarrhoea, vomiting, loss of appetite, feeling irritable or restless, swelling at the injection site, and nervousness. Serious side effects also include severe allergic reactions like rashes that may be itchy or blistering, swelling of the eyes and face, difficulty in breathing or swallowing, and a sudden drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness.
Warnings
This Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis is not recommended if your child has a bleeding disorder or is receiving anticoagulant therapy. Special precautions may be necessary to minimize the risk of bleeding at the injection site. It is important to inform the healthcare professional about any bleeding disorders or medications your child takes. The immune response to the vaccine can be reduced if your child has a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication. The vaccine's effectiveness may be lower in these cases, and the healthcare professional should evaluate the risks and benefits of administering the vaccine. If your child has a history of seizures or a family history of febrile seizures, it is important to discuss this with the healthcare professional. While the vaccine does not generally cause seizures, febrile seizures can occur after vaccination due to fever. The healthcare professional can provide appropriate guidance and recommendations. If your child experienced significant adverse events following previous vaccinations, such as high fever or severe allergic reactions, it is important to inform the healthcare professional immediately. They can assess the situation and determine if any precautions or additional monitoring are necessary.
Precautions
It should not be administered if your child is allergic to this vaccine or its ingredients. Allergic reactions may manifest as itchy skin, rash, shortness of breath, or swelling of the face or tongue. If your child has experienced nervous system problems within seven days following a previous vaccination against whooping cough, this vaccine should not be administered. Most importantly, Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis should not be given if your child has a severe infection with a temperature over 38°C. Minor infections, such as a cold, may not pose a problem, but it is advisable to consult with a doctor first. If your child has a fever, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before administering the vaccine. They can assess whether the vaccination should be delayed until the fever resolves or determine if it is safe to proceed.
Word of Advice
Completion of the recommended vaccination schedule as advised by healthcare professionals ensures children receive appropriate protection against diphtheria, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type b, hepatitis B, pertussis, and poliomyelitis. Consult a doctor or paediatrician for specific guidance on vaccination and any concerns.
Like any vaccine, this combination vaccine may cause side effects, though these are typically mild and temporary. Monitor your child for reactions including pain or swelling at the injection site, fever, or irritability. Contact your doctor immediately if you have any concerns following vaccination.
References
GlaxoSmithKline UK Limited, Electronic Medicines Compendium (EMC), [Revised on Jan 2021] [Accessed on 18th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2586.pdf S. K. Lalwani et al., Immunogenicity and safety of 3-dose primary vaccination with combined DTPa-HBV-IPV/Hib in Indian infants, Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics, 2017, 13(1), 120â127, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5287296/pdf/khvi-13-01-1225639.pdf GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals- Infanrix Hexa . Available at: https://gskpro.com/content/dam/global/hcpportal/en_US/Prescribing_Information/Infanrix/pdf/INFANRIX.PDF (Accessed on 18th May 2023).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to complete the full dose of the Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis?
Yes, receiving the full dose of the Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis is important to ensure maximum effectiveness and protection against the targeted diseases.
What should I inform the doctor before my child receives the vaccine?
Before your child receives Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis, inform the doctor about any medical conditions your child may have and any other medications your child is taking. This information will help the doctor assess the suitability and potential interactions of the vaccine.
How long does the protection from Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis last?
Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis protects against targeted diseases for a certain period. Booster doses may be required to maintain long-term immunity. Consult with healthcare professionals for specific recommendations.
Can Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis be given alongside other vaccines or medications?
Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis can generally be administered alongside other vaccines. However, it's important to inform the healthcare provider about any other medications or vaccines the child receives to ensure appropriate scheduling and minimize potential interactions.
What should I do if my child experiences side effects from Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis?
Most side effects of the Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis are temporary and resolve independently. However, if any side effects persist or worsen, it's advisable to consult the child's doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
Can Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis be given to adults?
No, Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis is not recommended for use in adults. It is a vaccine designed for infants and children to protect against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough).
How does Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis work?
Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies against the specific microorganisms that cause the targeted diseases. It helps the body recognize and fight off these infections if exposed.
Can I administer Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis at home?
No, Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis should not be self-administered at home. Healthcare professionals should give it.
What is the age limit for Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis?
Diphtheria tetanus, Haemophil, Hepatitis B, Pertussis, Poliomyelitis is generally given as a series of doses starting at two months of age and continuing until the child reaches around six