DTaP-IPV being replaced with DTaP-IPV-Hib

Advisory Alert

October 6, 2017

*  Cette information est seulement disponible en anglais.

Dear Colleagues:

Effective immediately, DTaP-IPV-Hib (Pediacel®) vaccine will permanently replace DTaP-IPV (Infanrix®-IPV) vaccine for ‘catch-up’ primary doses of diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis, and polio vaccine for children up to 7 years of age in Ontario.

Infanrix®-IPV is no longer being marketed in Canada; furthermore, the supply of Infanrix®-IPV in Ontario expired on September 30, 2017.

Background

Until now Pediacel® has been publicly funded for children up to 4 years of age as part of the routine immunization schedule and for 5 and 6 year olds with medical conditions that place them at high risk of invasive Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib) disease. Infanrix®-IPV was used for children between the ages of 4 and 6 who were missing primary immunizations but did not require vaccination with Hib.

Pediacel® is an appropriate substitute for children who are missing primary vaccinations, even with extra doses of Hib that may be provided beyond those recommended by the National Advisory Committee on Immunization. Any extra doses are not expected to cause harm or risk to the child.

Action required

1. Use Pediacel® vaccine for any child up to age 7 who requires primary vaccination for diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis, and polio.
2. Please return any expired stock of DTaP-IPV (Infanrix®-IPV) you may have to the Sudbury & District Health Unit using the Non-Reusable Vaccine (spoiled or expired) Return Record available on our website.

For additional information, please contact the Sudbury & District Health Unit at 705.522.9200, ext. 301.

Sincerely,

Ariella Zbar, MD, CCFP, MPH, MBA, FRCPC

Associate Medical Officer of Health and Director, Clinical Services

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This item was last modified on October 6, 2017