Vaccine Recall, by Frances Smith

You may have already heard about a nation-wide vaccine recall by the drug company, Merck. There are 2 vaccine products that are of concern--PedvaxHib and COMVAX, and only in certain production lots of these two specific vaccines. Both of these vaccines are given to children age 2 months to 5 years to protect against meningitis, pneumonia, and throat infections. This recall is just a precaution, because Merck found bacteria (Bacillus Cereus) on the equipment that produces the vaccine, but so far, none in the vaccine itself.

We haven't used these vaccine products at the Health Department here, but other doctors' offices may have. The good news is that so far there have been no reports of anyone having any ill effects. If there were to be any problems, it would be within one week of receiving the vaccine, and the most likely problem would be a swollen, red area around the injection site. A disseminated infection could include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If either problem occurs, the health provider should be contacted. The other good news is that the kids who got the recalled vaccine don't have to be re-vaccinated, because the vaccine was determined to be potent.

The bad news is that this recall will probably result in a shortage and rationing of Hib vaccine for awhile. (Hib is short for Haemophilus influenzae Type b). Rationing has happened in the past with vaccines for pneumococcal disease, chickenpox and also influenza. Vaccines are one of the best health care bargains in the world today. For a relatively low cost, we are protected against serious illness that can cause disability or death. By vaccinating children against childhood diseases, we also protect society as a whole.