Sanofi Korea said its 6-in-1 pediatric combination vaccine, Hexaxim Pre-filled Syringe, has officially been included in the National Immunization Program (NIP) starting Jan. 2. This addition allows infants to receive the vaccine free of charge at NIP-designated medical institutions nationwide.

Hexaxim is the first and only 6-in-1 combination vaccine in Korea, protecting against six diseases- -- diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, Haemophilus influenza type b (Hib), and hepatitis B. Unlike existing 5-in-1 vaccines, Hexaxim includes protection against hepatitis B, streamlining immunization schedules for infants.

The vaccine is recommended for infants who received a standalone hepatitis B vaccine at birth. It is administered in three doses at two, four, and six months of age.

However, infants born to hepatitis B-positive mothers require separate doses of the 5-in-1 vaccine and a standalone hepatitis B vaccine to prevent vertical transmission.

Parents can confirm NIP-designated medical institutions and the vaccines offered at each location through the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency’s (KDCA) website. Since vaccine availability may vary, confirming the institution's vaccine inventory before visiting is recommended.

Hexaxim is already part of essential immunization schedules in over 40 countries, including Europe, Canada, and Australia. The vaccine reduces the total number of injections from six (5-in-1 vaccine and standalone hepatitis B vaccine) to four, easing the burden on parents and infants.

This streamlined schedule also reduces delays and missed vaccinations, improving timely immunization rates.

Also, Hexaxim’s ready-to-use liquid formulation eliminates the need for reconstitution, reducing preparation time and the risk of errors during administration. This enhances efficiency for healthcare providers while ensuring safer and quicker vaccination services for infants and their families.

“The addition of Hexaxim to the NIP reflects its value in public health,” Sanofi Korea Vaccines Head Christine Park said. “This will reduce the financial burden on parents and improve healthcare system efficiency.”

Meanwhile, Sanofi has collaborated with SK bioscience to ensure the stable supply of Hexaxim to NIP-designated medical institutions across Korea. The two companies will also partner in distributing Hexaxim and promoting awareness of pediatric combination vaccines.