Retrospective observational study shows combination vaccines may improve vaccination coverage rates in infants

A new analysis from a retrospective observational study of administrative claims data from the Georgia State Medicaid program showed that infants who received at least one shot of PEDIARIX ® [Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Adsorbed, Hepatitis B (Recombinant) and Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine Combined] or Comvax® [Haemophilus b Conjugate (Meningococcal Protein Conjugate) and Hepatitis B (Recombinant) Vaccine] had higher immunization coverage rates for most of the vaccines or vaccine series studied in the first two years of life compared to infants given no doses of either of these combination vaccines. Results from the study were published in the June 2007 issue of the Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal.

“The routine immunization schedule for children has grown more complex as new vaccines have been added,” said Dr. Gary Marshall, Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY. “While this is good news in the sense that it means more protection against disease, it also means more difficulty delivering the shots. Results from this study suggest that by using combination vaccines and thereby decreasing the number of shots while providing the same protection, we can facilitate completion of the recommended series.”