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June 21, 2002

U.S. IMMUNIZATION NEWS

"Nationwide Shortage Delays Colorado Vaccinations"

Associated Press (www.ap.org) (06/21/02)

Colorado chief medical officer Ned Calonge reduced the number of pneumoncoccal immunizations for infants and toddlers to two doses from four doses due to a nationwide shortage of vaccines; the smaller requirement will remain in effect until July 1, 2003. However, Calonge suggests children who are at a high risk of contracting diseases receive all four dosages as recommended. The requirement that children receive a fourth and fifth dose of the tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccine before entering school is suspended due to the shortage as well.  However, chickenpox, hepatitis B, polio, and the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines are still required for children in full despite the shortage.

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