In 2007, Merck voluntarily recalled some lots of PedvaxHIB and Comvax, two Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines, and temporarily stopped their production because of possible contamination, resulting in a shortage during which pediatricians were urged to defer giving Hib booster doses (normally given at 12-15 months) to healthy children. Now the FDA has granted accelerated licensure of Hiberix (GlaxoSmithKline), a monovalent vaccine conjugated with tetanus toxoid that has been used in Europe since 1996, as a booster (final) dose of the Hib series in children 15 months-4 years old. Hiberix can also be given to children 12-15 months old as a scheduled booster dose.1

1. Licensure of a Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine (Hiberix) and updated recommendations for use of Hib vaccine. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2009; 58:1008.

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Although immunization programs have produced high vaccination rates in US infants and children, similar successes have not been achieved in adults. Vaccines recommended for routine use in adults are reviewed here. Vaccines for travel are reviewed separately.

Patients planning to travel to other countries often ask physicians for advice about immunizations and prevention of diarrhea and malaria. More detailed advice for travelers is available from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) at 877-FYI-TRIP (877-394-8747) or www.cdc.gov/travel. Recommendations for the treatment of parasitic diseases are available in the public reading room of The Medical Letter's web site.