Individual Vaccination Update September 2008

We get calls on a daily basis regarding the availability of individual measles, mumps and rubella vaccines. In the past we had been able to supply measles and rubella vaccines individually. We were never able to supply individual mumps vaccines as the manufacturer Merck, would only supply these to physicians offices. As of April 1, 2008, all of our conventional prescriptions were transferred to Hannaford Pharmacy in Waltham. As part of this agreement, we were no longer able to dispense prescriptions for anything that was not compounded, including these vaccines. I spoke with the manufacturer this week and they informed me they have release dates for rubella for October 2008 and measles for November 2008. They also informed me that these have been scheduled for release prior to this time but the release dates have been pushed back. this lead me to believe that these dates are probably not accurate. They also told me that mumps is not scheduled for release until July of 2009. I realize this information is unclear and apologize for not being able to give you a better answer. This frustrates me greatly. At this point in time I recommend trying to find a pharmacy that will put you on a waiting list for if and when they get vaccine. I would also contact your child’s physician to be sure they are willing to order the mumps vaccine when it becomes available. If I can be of any further help please don’t hesitate to call Steve @ 781-893-3870.