SYNFLORIX

Synflorix is a vaccine used to protect against invasive pneumococcal disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. It helps prevent infections like pneumonia, meningitis, and middle ear infections (otitis media) & sepsis.

How It Works

Synflorix is a polysaccharide conjugate vaccine which contains inactivated forms of 10 pneumococcal serotypes that stimulate the immune system to develop protection against these bacteria.

Administration

• Given as a series of injections, usually administered in the upper arm or thigh.
• Recommended 3 dose primary schedule for infants starting at 6 weeks old (or 2 months age), with subsequent 2 doses at a gap of 1 month between each dose, followed by a booster dose at around 12-15 months (6 month after the last primary dose).Schedule is same for Preterm and Term babies.
• 2 dose primary schedule: 1st dose > 6 wk age, 2 nd dose after 2 month gap, followed by a booster dose at around 12-15 months (6 month after the last primary dose)
• Unvaccinated kids >7 months of age: 7-11 month- primary is 2 injections 1 months apart. followed by a booster dose in the 2nd year  (2 month after the last primary dose)
• Unvaccinated kids >1-5 years of age. 2 injections 2 months apart. No booster required

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Pain or redness at the injection site
• Fever
• Irritability
• Drowsiness
• Loss of appetite

Severe reactions are rare.

Pregnancy and Lactation

• Pregnancy: Not applicable, as it is intended for infants and young children.
• Lactation: Not applicable but Safe for nursing mothers to administer to their infants.

Minimum Age Group

• Minimum Age: Approved for use in infants starting at 6 weeks old.

Maximum Age Group

• Can not be given beyond 5 yrs of age.

Interchangeability 

• Allowed with other pneumococcal vaccines( Prevenar 13, pneubevax 14, Pneumosil 10) if need arises as per the Doctor recommendations & IAP guidelines

Contraindications

• Allergic Reactions: Not for individuals with severe allergies to any component of the vaccine.
• Severe Illness: Vaccination should be postponed in cases of acute, severe febrile illness.
• Children on immunosuppressants.

Synflorix is crucial for preventing serious pneumococcal diseases in young children. Consult healthcare providers for detailed vaccination schedules and personalized recommendations.