Reports of febrile seizures with measles, mumps, rubella and varicella (MMRV) combination vaccine

From January to October 2013, HSA received 13 reports of seizures following MMRV vaccination, as compared to six in 2012. Of these reports in 2013, 85% concerned febrile seizures occurring within three weeks of vaccination with Priorix-TetraTM (GlaxoSmithKline Pte Ltd), which is the MMRV vaccine used predominantly in Singapore. Seven and five children received the first and second dose of the MMRV vaccine, respectively. The dose given to the remaining child was not specified. Four children were reported to have personal or family history of seizures. All recovered shortly after the seizure episode.

The risks of febrile seizures with MMR and MMRV vaccines are well established. The number of febrile seizures attributable to MMR vaccines was estimated at 2.5 to 3.4 per 10,000 children vaccinated.1 The attributable risk of febrile seizures in the main risk period of 5 to 12 days following the first dose of Priorix-TetraTM was 3.64 per 10,000 (95% CI –6.11, 8.30).2 There was no indication of an increased risk after the second dose.

Whilst the number of reports of febrile seizures remained within the expected incidence, healthcare professionals are recommended to provide counselling to parents/caregivers about the possible risk of febrile seizures post-MMRV vaccination and the management of such events.

References

  1. N Engl J Med 2001; 345: 656-61
  2. Singapore package insert for Priorix-TetraTM, approved April 2013
Healthcare professional, Industry member, Therapeutic Products
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