Journal article

Evaluation of combination measles-mumps-rubella-varicella vaccine introduction in Australia

K Macartney, HF Gidding, L Trinh, H Wang, A Dey, B Hull, K Orr, J McRae, P Richmond, M Gold, N Crawford, JA Kynaston, P McIntyre, N Wood

JAMA Pediatrics | AMER MEDICAL ASSOC | Published : 2017

Abstract

IMPORTANCE: Incorporating combination vaccines, such as the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine, into immunization schedules should be evaluated from a benefit-risk perspective. Use of MMRV vaccine poses challenges due to a recognized increased risk of febrile seizures (FSs) when used as the first dose in the second year of life. Conversely, completion by age 2 years of measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella immunization may offer improved disease control. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect on safety and coverage of earlier (age 18 months) scheduling of MMRV vaccine as the second dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV) in Australia. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: Prospective a..

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University of Melbourne Researchers