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Dr. Lynn Cates
Specializing in pediatric infectious diseases and childhood immunizations.
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Vaccine Shortages
QUESTION
Dear Dr. Cates,
I brought my six-month-old for her vaccinations but was told there was a shortage of two vaccines, so instead of receiving four shots, they only gave her two. They said that there was a nationwide shortage of Hib as well as Prevnar. Is it true? Will it be OK for her to only get them at nine months?

— Jillhw in Nashville

ANSWER
April 11, 2002
Dear Jillhw,
I'm glad you asked this question because I'm sure that a lot of parents are wondering the same thing. Unfortunately, right now we have a shortage of some of our routine childhood vaccines so selected doses are being postponed. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices have carefully studied the situation and determined which doses in each vaccine series can be delayed with the least risk to the child.

It sounds as if your daughter's provider is up to date on the revised recommendations and is taking care to get her as many immunizations as possible. Hopefully, vaccine supplies will be adequate within the next few months.

— by Lynn Cates, M.D., F.A.A.P.

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