Immunisation and 5-in-1 jabs for new born

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winpetung

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Joined: Mar 31, 2003
Posts: 42

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Posted: Nov 27, 2005 - 01:44 AM
Post subject: Immunisation and 5-in-1 jabs for new born

My baby was born last month and I just found out (to my horror) according to the local immunisation program, she'll be subjected to (ave) a jab per month till she's 1 yr old. Is the 5-in-1 jab avail here in Shanghai? If so, where? Would this have any 'side effects' ..... cos there must be a reason for the Chinese to spread the jabs out.

We used to coincide my elder son's immunisation schedule and check-ups with our home leave on his Singapore PD's recommendation on using trusted brands. We even brought forward my son's 3rd Hep B jab so we could leave SG when he was 4 months old. Is there a need to do this? Is the quality of the locally produced vaccine 'sub-standard'? Wouldn't the local vaccine be tailored to the local 'environment'?

Many thanks for your help.

askWorldLink

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Joined: Sep 30, 2005
Posts: 81

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Posted: Nov 28, 2005 - 04:56 PM

The 5-in-1 vaccine can be obtained for you at World Link from an overseas pharmacy.

Infanrix 5-in-1 protects against diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), tatanus, polio, and hemophilus (hib). Coverage against these organisms is needed by every child and and the 5-in-1 is the easiest way to give it.

We recommended using an overseas-produced 5-in-1 in order to have the safest possible vaccine and to reduce the number of jabs. (Vaccines against some other diseases do have high-quality local equivalents, ask your doctor for pros and cons)

The basic Infanrix series is given as a series of three shots in early infancy (typically at 2,4,and 6 months), followed by boosters at 18mo and 4 years. Side effects are fairly basic and may show as low fever for a day or extreme fussiness. More serious reactions are rare.

Dr. Morgan Jenkins, pediatrician and immunologist, will be able to walk you through maze of vaccines needed for newborns and give recommendations based on your situation. Appointments with him can be made at 6385 9889 x 633.