Diphtheria Immune Globulin (30IU) + Haemophilus Type B Conjugate Vaccine (10mcg) + Pertussis Toxoid (4IU) + Tetanus Toxoid (60IU) + Poliomyelitis Virus Type 1 (40D Antigen Unit) + Poliomyelitis Virus
Overview
This multivalent vaccine combines multiple antigens to provide active immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and poliomyelitis. The formulation includes diphtheria immune globulin to provide immediate passive protection against diphtheria toxin, tetanus toxoid to stimulate immunity to tetanus, pertussis toxoid to protect against pertussis, a Haemophilus influenzae type b polysaccharide conjugated to a carrier protein to induce durable immunity to invasive Hib disease, and inactivated poliomyelitis virus antigens to protect against poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3. When administered, the vaccine stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies and immunologic memory against these pathogens, thereby reducing the risk of serious infections such as diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, meningitis due to Hib, and poliomyelitis. Combination vaccines simplify immunization schedules by delivering multiple protective components in a single injection, improving adherence and coverage in routine pediatric and catch‑up immunization programmes.
Background and Date of Approval
While specific global approval histories for this exact branded combination vary by formulation and manufacturer, multivalent vaccines incorporating diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis, inactivated poliomyelitis, and Haemophilus influenzae type b components have been licensed and widely used internationally for decades as part of routine childhood immunization schedules. Regulatory approvals for similar combinations, such as DTaP‑IPV‑Hib vaccines, are based on clinical evidence demonstrating safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy in preventing the targeted diseases in infants and young children, with programme adoption recommended by national and global immunization advisory bodies.
Uses
This combination vaccine is indicated for active immunization against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, invasive disease due to Haemophilus influenzae type b, and poliomyelitis caused by poliovirus types 1, 2, and 3. Use is typically part of early childhood immunization schedules beginning in infancy, with doses given at recommended intervals to ensure adequate immune protection and durability. Catch‑up immunization may also be used in older children and adults based on individual risk factors and immunization history.
Administration
The vaccine is administered by intramuscular injection, with dosing and schedule depending on the age of the recipient and national immunization guidelines. In routine vaccination schedules, a series of doses is given beginning in early infancy with additional doses at defined intervals to complete the primary immunization series. Booster doses may be recommended in later childhood or adulthood for continued protection according to regional recommendations. Monitoring of injection technique and adherence to schedule is essential to achieve optimal immunogenicity.
Side Effects
Common side effects of multivalent vaccines containing diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Hib, and poliovirus components include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, low‑grade fever, irritability, fatigue, and mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as decreased appetite. Transient symptoms are common and usually resolve within a few days without long‑term effects.
Warnings
Serious adverse events are uncommon but may include severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis, high fever, or neurologic events. Individuals with known severe hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine should not receive it. Vaccination should be postponed in individuals with moderate or severe acute illness until recovery has occurred. As this vaccine contains inactivated components and toxoids, it can be administered to immunocompromised persons, but immune responses may be reduced.
Precautions
Before vaccination, healthcare providers should assess the patient’s medical history for allergies to vaccine components or a history of severe reactions to prior doses. There are no significant drug interactions known to contraindicate vaccination, but timing relative to immunosuppressive therapy may influence immune response. Live vaccines may be administered concurrently at separate anatomical sites according to standard practice. Routine monitoring of recipients after injection helps identify rare immediate reactions.
Expert Tips
Confirm the appropriate formulation and age‑appropriate schedule based on local immunization guidelines. Educate caregivers about the importance of completing the full immunization series and counsel on common side effects and when to seek medical advice. Ensure proper intramuscular injection technique and observe the recipient briefly post‑vaccination to monitor for immediate hypersensitivity. Maintain accurate immunization records and coordinate with routine health visits to maximize adherence.