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Abstract:
This review discusses the indications for the routine immunizations covered by the Swiss "Immunization Schedule 1981" (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, measles, mumps, rubella, BCG), as well as the indications for special immunizations (hepatitis B, influenza, pneumococci, rabies, tickencephalitis) and for the immunisations for travellers (cholera, yellow fever, meningococci, typhoid fever). Vaccination against measles, mumps and rubella should be given to girls and boys at the age of 18 (to 24) months as a combined injection. In view of the low prevalence of tuberculosis BCG vaccination is justifiable only at school leaving age, if at all. The indications for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines are still limited, the value of a general vaccination of all over 65 year old individuals is not proven for either vaccine. A nationwide vaccination campaign against hepatitis B was started early this year with a newly licensed vaccine for all population groups at risk. Only HDC-vaccines should be used for immunisation against rabies. The newly licensed, highly protective oral attenuated live typhoid vaccine will probably replace the parenteral typhoid vaccine.