A phase III randomized, controlled study to assess the immunogenicity and tolerability of DTPw–HBV–Hib, a liquid pentavalent vaccine in Indian infants

Immunogenicity and tolerability of two liquid pentavalent vaccines, Pentavac® (new vaccine), and Easyfive® (available in the market) was assessed in a multicentre study in India. In all, 484 infants aged 6–8 weeks were enrolled, and their blood samples were assessed prior to the first dose and one month after the third dose. A 100% seroprotection rate was achieved with both vaccines’ antigens, except pertussis for which the response was 95% and 96%, respectively, for the two vaccines. A diary-based recording of adverse events showed that the two most common events were pain at the injection site and restricted limb movements and were less frequent (p < 0.001) among the recipients of the new vaccine. The new vaccine meets all criteria of childhood vaccination. Its low reactogenicity and low cost are valid reasons to recommend this vaccine for general use.