Immunizations
Whenever possible, all required immunizations should be given before transplant. After transplant, your child should not receive any routine immunizations until approval is given by the transplant team (about 12 weeks after transplant). Modified immunizations will then be given according to the usual well-child schedule.
Because of the immunosuppressant medications, your child should not receive live virus vaccines, including MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella), OPV (oral polio vaccine) or varicella. Infants and children who are immunosuppressed should receive the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV). All members of the family should also receive IPV. Family members can, however, receive the MMR.
VZIG, a shot, is always given as soon as possible after your child has been exposed to chicken pox to lessen the severity of the disease. Call the transplant team immediately if your child has been exposed to chicken pox.