Technically Speaking — Vaxelis: What You Should Know
Published on in Vaccine Update for Healthcare Providers
Published on in Vaccine Update for Healthcare Providers
Vaxelis™ is a hexavalent vaccine that protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenzae type b, and hepatitis B. It is now available for use in children between 6 weeks and 4 years of age, regardless of whether they have private insurance or are covered by the Vaccines For Children (VFC) program. The vaccine, which was developed by the MCM Vaccine Co., a joint venture between Merck and Sanofi Pasteur, combines previously FDA-licensed versions of other commonly used vaccines:
While two pentavalent vaccines, Pentacel® and Pediarix®, have been common options for reducing the number of shots in the infant vaccination series, Vaxelis represents the first six-component version.
As with other combination vaccines, the CDC’s general recommendation is that subsequent doses of vaccine be of the same brand whenever possible, but providers can deviate, if necessary, in order to complete a series. Related information can be found in the “General Best Practice Guidelines for Immunization” on the CDC’s website.
Do not give Vaxelis to anyone with a history of:
The following codes have been assigned to Vaxelis:
For complete details, see “Billing Codes, National Drug Codes, and Immunization Registry Codes for Vaxelis” or for a printable version, access the PDF.
Contributed by: Sharon G. Humiston, MD, MPH, FAAP
Categories: Vaccine Update July 2021, Technically Speaking
Materials in this section are updated as new information and vaccines become available. The Vaccine Education Center staff regularly reviews materials for accuracy.
You should not consider the information in this site to be specific, professional medical advice for your personal health or for your family's personal health. You should not use it to replace any relationship with a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. For medical concerns, including decisions about vaccinations, medications and other treatments, you should always consult your physician or, in serious cases, seek immediate assistance from emergency personnel.