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Japan Panel OKs New MMR Vaccine for Kids
3 Mar
Summary
- A new MMR vaccine may soon be the only option available in Japan.
- Previous MMR vaccines were suspended due to serious side effects.
- This new vaccine's risks are deemed within acceptable bounds.
Japan's expert panel has given a positive recommendation for Daiichi Sankyo's combined measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. This decision paves the way for the health minister to authorize its production and sale. Should it receive final approval, this vaccine will become the only MMR option available for children in Japan.
MMR vaccines were initially introduced into Japan's routine immunization schedule in 1989 but were later suspended in 1993. This suspension followed reports of serious side effects, including aseptic meningitis, and a lawsuit that found the government partially liable for a child's death post-vaccination.
Reassuringly, the expert panel determined that the potential risks associated with Daiichi Sankyo's vaccine are within acceptable limits. Clinical trials did not indicate any cases of aseptic meningitis, and the mumps component has a history of use in other countries.
The company stated that introducing this comprehensive vaccine is expected to lessen the burden on those receiving immunizations. Additionally, the panel also approved the addition of prevention as an effect for Shionogi's oral COVID-19 treatment, Xocova, which, if approved, would mark Japan's first oral COVID-19 prevention therapy.
