February 2008 - In response to the recall of Merck’s Haemophilus influenzae type b (commonly called “Hib”), the major cause of meningitis in young children, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has temporarily adjusted the requirement for child care entry and issued an interim special immunization schedule.

Children between 15 months and 4 years and 6 months of age entering child care for the first time can be admitted if they have received one dose of Hib, regardless of the age when it was administered. No other changes have been made.

Children entering child care for the first time and under 15 months still require up to two doses for entry.

CDPH letter to Child Care Facilities
2008 special immunization schedule: English | Spanish
Amended table of 2008 special schedule immunization requirements

Providers are advised to temporarily defer the booster dose of Hib administered at the 12-15 months of age except for children who are at increased risk of invasive Hib disease. A list of children for whom the booster dose of Hib has been deferred should be kept to recall once the vaccine supply improves.

CDPH letter to Providers