DOWN SYNDROME : IMMUNISATION

Key Points

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(based on DSMIG clinical awareness note - J Dennis and D Elliman)

Note: This advice is based on the current (april 2006) immunisation schedule – it will be revised when the new UK schedule is introduced

• Give all vaccines that are part of universal UK schedule:

  • DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
  • Polio
  • Hib  (Haemophilus influenzae Type b)
  • Meningococcal C
  • MMR  (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

• Strong case for following additional vaccines:

  • Influenza for all
  • Pneumococcal for all.
    Until formal schedule is agreed consider:

    • Babies
      - conjugate 7-valent vaccine at 2, 4 and 13 months followed by polysaccharide 21 valent vaccine post age 5

    • Older non-immunised under 5s
      – conjugate 7-valent vaccine followed by  21-valent polysaccharide post age 5

    • Non-immunised over 5s
      - give both

• Possible case for the following:

  • Hepatitis B 

  Need pre and post vaccine determination of immune status as per local schedules. Advice re timing and local schedules available from local paediatrician

  Consider pre-care immunisation for adults going into residential care – accelerated course. (1st 3 doses within one month)

  • BCG - probably no indication unless in high risk group.

There is increased possibility of non-response to immunisation and this should always be borne in mind.

Updated 2008

This page is also available as a PDF.

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