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Indication
Pentacel vaccine is indicated for active immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, and invasive disease due to Haemophilus influenzae type b. Pentacel vaccine is approved for use in children 6 weeks through 4 years of age (prior to fifth birthday).
Safety Information
The most common local and systemic adverse reactions to Pentacel vaccine include injection site redness, swelling, and tenderness; fever, fussiness, and crying. Other adverse reactions may occur. Known systemic hypersensitivity reaction to any component of Pentacel vaccine or a life-threatening reaction after previous administration of the vaccine or a vaccine containing the same substances are contraindications to vaccination.
The decision to give Pentacel vaccine should be based on the potential benefits and risks; if Guillain-Barré syndrome has occurred within 6 weeks of receipt of a prior vaccine containing tetanus toxoid; or if adverse events have occurred in temporal relation to receipt of pertussis-containing vaccine. Encephalopathy within 7 days of administration of a previous dose of a pertussis-containing vaccine or a progressive neurologic disorder is a contraindication. Vaccination with Pentacel vaccine may not protect all individuals.
Before administering Pentacel vaccine, please see accompanying full Prescribing Information.
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![The birth dose [of hepatitis B vaccine] provides early protection to infants at risk for infection after the perinatal period. Administration of a birth dose has been associated with higher rates of on-time completion of the hepatitis B vaccine series.](images/sub_2_2_info.gif "The birth dose [of hepatitis B vaccine] provides early protection to infants at risk for infection after the perinatal period. Administration of a birth dose has been associated with higher rates of on-time completion of the hepatitis B vaccine series.")
