Pentacel vaccine contraindications and precautions (Please see Sanofi Pasteur product insert for complete list):
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- Temperature of 105 F. or higher within 48 hours of a previous pertussis vaccination, not attributable to another identifiable cause;
- Collapse or shock-like state (hypotonic-hyporesponsive episodes) within 48 hours of a previous pertussis vaccination;
- Persistent crying lasting three hours or more within 48 hours of a previous pertussis vaccination;
- Convulsions with or without fever, occurring within three days of a previous pertussis vaccination;
- Serious allergic reaction to a previous pertussis vaccination;
- Encephalopathy (coma, decreased level of consciousness, prolonged convulsions) within seven days of a previous pertussis vaccination not attributable to another identifiable cause;
- Children with a progressive neurologic disorder (such as infantile spasms, uncontrolled epilepsy, or progressive encephalopathy)
- Severe allergic reaction to any component of Pentacel, including neomycin and polymyxin B (antibiotics);
- Apnea following intramuscular vaccination has been observed in some infants born prematurely. Pentacel vaccine package insert warns that the decision to vaccinate an infant born prematurely should take into consideration both the potential risks and possible benefits of vaccination;
- If Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) occurred within six weeks of receiving a tetanus containing vaccine, assessment of the possible risks and potential benefits of receiving Pentacel should be carefully considered prior to vaccination.
Pentacel is FDA approved for use in infants and children between six weeks through four years of age. Pentacel should not be administered to infants younger than six weeks or children older than four years of age.
