Kids to Get Measles Jab Earlier, Tetanus Shot Later in UpdatedDutch Vaccination Program
Amsterdam, Netherlands – The Dutch National Institute for PublicHealth and the Environment (RIVM) is implementing significant changes to the national vaccination program, with the most notable shift being the earlier administration of the measles vaccine andthe later administration of the tetanus vaccine. These changes will take effect on January 1, 2025.
Key Changes:
- Measles Vaccination: The MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine will now be given at age 3, instead of age 9. This earlier vaccination aims to provide better protection against measles before children enter school.
- Tetanus Vaccination: The DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio) vaccine will be administered at age 14, instead of age 9. This change is based on the understanding that tetanus protectionis more effective when administered later.
- Polio Vaccination: The DTP vaccine will no longer include polio protection at age 5. While the WHO recommends three doses, Dutch children already receive four doses in their first year of life. The RIVM believes that this provides sufficient protection and delaying the fourth dose toage 5 offers longer-lasting immunity.
- Catch-Up Operation: The RIVM is launching a major catch-up operation for children who have not received all their vaccinations. Parents will receive letters starting next week with information about the catch-up program.
Rationale for Changes:
The RIVMcites several reasons for the changes, including:
- Improved Measles Protection: The earlier measles vaccination aims to prevent outbreaks among school-aged children.
- Longer-Lasting Tetanus Immunity: Delaying the tetanus vaccination provides longer-lasting protection.
- Optimizing Polio Protection:The current four-dose polio vaccination schedule in the first year of life is deemed sufficient, and delaying the fourth dose to age 5 offers longer-lasting immunity.
Potential Concerns:
While the changes are intended to improve overall vaccination coverage and protection, some concerns have been raised:
- Increased MumpsCases: Moving the mumps vaccination to age 3 may lead to an increase in mumps cases among teenagers, as the disease is more common in this age group. The RIVM is monitoring this situation and may consider an additional mumps vaccination later in life if necessary.
Conclusion:
The updated vaccinationprogram represents a significant shift in the Netherlands’ approach to childhood immunizations. The changes are intended to optimize protection against various diseases while addressing evolving scientific understanding. The RIVM is committed to monitoring the impact of these changes and ensuring the continued health and well-being of Dutch children.
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