Definition
Infanrix (hexa) is a combination vaccine that is used simultaneously to protect against six different infectious diseases. It is usually used in children to protect them from the diseases within the framework of so-called basic immunization. Due to the combined composition, only one syringe per vaccination appointment needs to be administered. There is also a vaccine called Infanrix DTPa, which is only used to protect against three diseases.
Active ingredient
The Infanrix hexa vaccine contains various active ingredients that serve to build up the body’s own protection against six different dangerous infectious diseases. Some of these are attenuated pathogens or their components. These cannot cause disease but are sufficient to stimulate the immune system to produce protective cells and antibodies (special protein particles to ward off diseases), so that the pathogens can also be fended off.
Three of the active ingredients are inactivated forms of toxins produced by the pathogens. Here too, protection against these toxins is achieved by stimulating the immune system. The vaccine Infanrix DTPa contains only the last three active ingredients and protects only against the respective diseases (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis).
What diseases are vaccinated against?
Infanrix hexa protects against six different infectious diseases, some of which can lead to lifelong damage or even death of the child. These include diphtheria caused by bacteria, which can lead to swelling of the airways and even suffocation. In addition, damage to the heart and nerves is possible.
Another component of the vaccination protects against tetanus (tetanus). If the vaccination does not protect against tetanus, tetanus pathogens can enter the body through wounds or scratches and cause painful muscle cramps, which can also be fatal. Another component of Infanrix is protection against whooping cough (pertussis).
The disease causes severe coughing attacks that can last for months. Complications may include pneumonia, seizures and brain damage. Even with whooping cough, a fatal course is ultimately possible.
Furthermore, the vaccination makes Hepatitis B immune against viral liver inflammation. Long-term consequences of an infection with the virus would be liver failure or liver cancer in the worst case. The next important component of the vaccination is protection against polio.
The disease can lead to paralysis and can also lead to death if the respiratory muscles are affected. Finally, Infanrix hexa protects against an outbreak of disease caused by the bacterium Haemophilus Influenza. The pathogen can cause a variety of infections with sometimes serious consequences.
These include meningitis, which can lead to mental damage, and infection of the epiglottis, which can result in death by suffocation. Blood, heart, lungs and bones can also be affected by an inflammation. In contrast to Infanrix hexa, the vaccine Infanrix DTPa only protects against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. This topic might also be of interest to you: Vaccinations for babies
All articles in this series:
