Infanrix Tetra (Poliovirus (Inactivated) Type 3 (Saukett Strain), Pertussis Filamentous Haemagglutinin Adsorbed On A)

Infanrix Tetra is a combination vaccine used to prevent bacterial and viral infections targeted by the diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis and poliovirus antigens.

• Diphtheria: induces immunity that prevents diphtheria infection and its complications.
• Tetanus: stimulates protective antibodies against tetanus toxin, reducing risk of tetanus.
• Pertussis (whooping cough): provides immunity to Bordetella pertussis, decreasing incidence of whooping cough.
• Poliomyelitis: generates antibodies against poliovirus types, preventing poliomyelitis.

• The vaccine contains purified, inactivated diphtheria and tetanus toxoids, acellular pertussis antigens (including filamentous haemagglutinin), and inactivated poliovirus type 3. After intramuscular injection, antigen‑presenting cells process these components, activating B‑cells and T‑cells to produce specific antibodies, thereby establishing long‑lasting adaptive immunity against the four pathogens.

Infanrix Tetra, like other injectable vaccines, may be associated with local and systemic reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: mild to moderate discomfort at the injection site.
• Redness or swelling: localized erythema or edema that resolves within a few days.
• Fever: low‑grade temperature rise occurring within 24‑48 hours.
• Irritability: increased fussiness or crying in infants.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): rapid onset of hives, airway swelling, or hypotension.
• Seizures: rare neurologic events possibly linked to fever.
• High‑grade fever: persistent fever above 39°C lasting more than 48 hours.

When using Infanrix Tetra, consider the following precautions:

• Age restriction: administered only to infants and children according to approved immunisation schedule.
• Contraindication: avoid in individuals with known severe allergy to any vaccine component.
• Prior reaction: postpone if the child experienced a serious reaction to a previous dose of this vaccine.
• Immunocompromised status: consult healthcare provider before vaccinating immunodeficient patients.
• Fever or acute illness: defer vaccination until the child has recovered from moderate or severe illness.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Infanrix Tetra may interact with other medicines or vaccines as follows:

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Live viral vaccines: avoid co‑administration with live attenuated vaccines within 4 weeks due to potential immune interference.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Immunoglobulin therapy: may reduce vaccine immunogenicity; schedule at least 2 weeks apart.
• Corticosteroids: high‑dose systemic steroids may blunt antibody response; monitor serology.
• Blood products: transfusions may affect vaccine efficacy; consider timing.
• Antipyretics: prophylactic use of acetaminophen may slightly diminish antibody titers; use only for symptom relief.