Kristie McNealy, MD

Case reports of severe apnea and bradycardia after administration of the DTaP vaccine (diptheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis) have caused some doctors to give preemies reduced doses or delay the administration of this vaccine. A new study published in the May issue of Pediatrics has shown no difference in the incidence of prolonged apnea or bradycardia in premature infants who had received the vaccine as compared to those who had not. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that premature infants receive the DTaP vaccine at two months chronological age.

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