Frequently Asked Questions on the Rubella Import Process
Q) How much does the vaccine cost?
A) The preliminary import costs are not known yet, since the greatest bulk of the
expense will be in the refrigerated shipping from Japan. If there are 1000
doses needed and the shipping is $2000.00 that would be an average cost of $2.00
additional per vaccine.
Q) Does my insurance cover this vaccine?
A) If your insurance currently covers vaccinations, yes, the Japanese rubella
should be covered.
Q) Is the vaccine safe?
A) As with any vaccinations there is always a chance of an adverse reaction.
But the Takahashi rubella does have a proven track record through WHO reports
which are completely in line with FDA safety standards. It is comparable
to Merck's Meruvax single dose rubella vaccine for both safety and efficacy.
Q) Will my child need a booster shot?
A) No. The Takahashi does not require any booster - and neither does the
Merck rubella. The only reason the Merck MMR booster is given in the US is
because of the low immunity levels from only one dose of the measles portion of
the MMR - not the rubella or mumps portions.
Q) What if the FDA does not give us the approval?
We will seek legal action since it is a violation of your religious rights and
the FDA does have the option by federal law to allow it. And of course we will continue to work toward full US
licensing.
Q) When can we expect to receive the vaccine?
A) That will depend on IF and how long the FDA takes to
review the exception approval we are seeking. If they approve our request, we
could have the rubella vaccine in the US within 2 months of their approval.
Q) How will you get the vaccine distributed to doctors in the US from
Japan?
A) The plan is to set up a central receiving area in the US for
distribution. That central area will
most likely be where there is the greatest need geographically - in the State of
Pennsylvania.
Q) What if my doctor doesn't want to administer the vaccine?
A) We will be setting up a network of physicians, who will help. If there is none nearby, you may have to
travel to receive the vaccine if you want it immediately.
Q) If we can't travel now, will we be able to order the vaccine in the
future through regular channels?
A) This is our ultimate goal: To obtain formal licensing and US
distribution so that all parents nationwide can receive this vaccine easily.
If the response we receive from concerned parents is strong enough it will only
facilitate that licensing process!
Question not answered here? Contact us: info@cogforlife.org