Varicella (Chickenpox) Vaccine and Hep A Vaccine

[jaetee]

Do most/all babies in HK usually get the Varicella/Chickenpox and Hepatitis A vaccines?

I am wondering whether to give my 21 month old the vaccines.

Thanks for the advice.

 

[MommyTo3]

Yes, is my understanding. My kids were vaccinated against varicella in the States, but my 4 yo needs a second dose within a couple of months. Hep A was recently added in the States but mine didn't get it because of a strange schedule so they still need to get that. It's especially recommended when travelling in the region.

 

[jaetee]

Thanks - do you know if it is okay to give both shots at one visit, or is it better to space them out?

Thanks again.

 

[kmalia]

The recommended schedule for HK is here:
http://www.fhs.gov.hk/english/main_ser/child_health/child_health_recommend.html

- B.C.G. (tuberculosis)
- Hep B
- DTaP-IV (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio)
- MMR (Measles, Mumps Rubella)

This is what the Center for Disease Control Recommends:
http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/recs/schedules/downloads/child/2008/08_0-6yrs_schedule_pr.pdf

 

[jaetee]

Thanks kmalia - so it seems that Hep A isnt really necessary, or is it just not mandatory?

 

[kmalia]

That is a question that I will be asking my paediatrician too, as it is not totally clear!

I do know if you are from the US or plan to send your children to school there at some point, it depends from State to State which shots are mandatory.

If you are just concerned with Hong Kong, i think the only things that are mandatory are the ones listed on their recommended schedule and everything else is up to you.