May 20, 2013
A new vaccine for infants could make it a little easier for the children and their parents to handle, but some doctors have concerns. It's called Pediarix and it's a vaccine that combines Hepatitis B, Polio, Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis into one shot instead of two.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approved the drug for use back in 2002 and it became available in our state January 1. But some pediatricians are cautious about the vaccine.
Doctors with Washington Pediatrics say the vaccine is showing a risk of higher fevers and is proving to be more expensive than other vaccines, about two dollars more per dose. Doctors say other combination vaccines should be approved soon, which may offer a better choice.
