Cholvax 1.5 ml/vial

INDICATIONS

Oral Cholera Vaccine is indicated for active immunization against Vibrio cholerae. The vaccine can be administered to anyone above the age of 1 year. Data for the safety and efficacy of the vaccine in infants (less than 1 year of age) is not available. The earliest onset of protection can be expected 7-10 days after the completion of the primary series of the vaccine. Efficacy against Vibrio cholerae serogroup O139 was not demonstrated.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION

The recommended dose of the vaccine (1.5 ml) is to be administered orally. The primary immunization schedule consists of two doses given at an interval of at least two weeks. Cholera vaccine should not be administered parenterally (intramuscular, subcutaneous or intravenously). The vaccine is only recommended for oral administration.Method of administration: The vaccine is presented as a suspension. After vigorous shaking of the vial, 1.5 ml should be poured into the mouth of the recipient. The vaccine administration may be optionally followed by water to facilitate ingestion, if needed. The vaccine can alternatively be administered with a disposable syringe (without needle) after removing the contents from the vial and squirted into the mouth of the recipient. The vaccine should not be administered parenterally (intramuscular, subcutaneous or intravenously). The vaccine is only recommended for oral administration.

SIDE EFFECTS

The following adverse events are known to occur with cholera vaccine use. Acute gastroenteritis, diarrhea, fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, itching, rash, nausea, weakness, cough, vertigo, dryness of mouth, oral ulcer (rare), sore throat (rare) and yellowing of urine (rare). It has been observed that the incidence of adverse events is less after the second dose as compared to the first.

PREGNANCY & LACTATION

No specific clinical studies have been performed to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of cholera vaccine in pregnant women and for the fetus. However, administration of cholera vaccine to pregnant women and nursing mother may be considered after careful evaluation of the benefits and risks in case of a medical emergency or an epidemic.

PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS

Vaccination should be provided by a review of the medical history (especilly with regard to previous vaccination & possible occurrence of the undesirable events) and a clinical examination. As with any vaccine immunization with the cholera vaccine may not protect 100% susceptible individuals. This vaccine is also not a substitute for therapy in case of individuals suspected to be suffering from cholera or showing signs and symptoms of an acute episode of gastro intestinal disease or acute watery diarrhea. Immunocompromised persons (subsequent to a disease or immunosuppressive therapy) may not obtain the expected immune response after vaccination with the cholera vaccine. If possible, in the opinion of the medical practitioner, due consideration should be given to postpone vaccination until after the completion of the immunosuppressive treatment. As with all vaccines, appropriate medical treatment should always be available in case of a rare event of anaphylactic reactions following the administration of the vaccine. For this reason, it is recommended that the vaccinee should remain under medical supervision for at least 30 minutes after vaccination.

THERAPEUTIC CLASS

Vaccines, Anti-sera & Immunoglobulin

STORAGE CONDITIONS

Keep out of the reach and sight of children. Store at +2 ºC to +8 ºC. Transportation should also be at +2 ºC to +8 ºC. Do not freeze. Discard vaccine if frozen. Protect from light.