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What is the pneumococcal vaccine?
Streptococcus pneumonia or pneumococcal disease causes a variety of illnesses in very young children but fortunately there are vaccines for it. The pathogen consists of about 90 strains and not all are covered by the vaccines but nevertheless the vaccine is strongly recommended for all babies, especially those with compromised immune systems. More than a decade ago, pneumococcus was responsible for the many bacterial infections in children, predominantly ear infections. Apart from that, meningitis, pneumonia, infections in the blood(sepsis), conjunctivitis, and sinusitis are among the more serious infections caused by this bacterium, attacking infants and young children and the elderly more than any other age groups. The bacteria resides in the nasal passages and upper airways and are usually spread through coughing and sneezing.
The vaccines in use are killed vaccines and contain a group of the most common type of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria (e.g. Prevnar 13 protects against 13 of the estimated 90 different strains). Some vaccines are suitable for very young babies while others are more appropriate for older children. The disease can have fatal consequences or cause permanent damage to the victims, and since children below two are especially vulnerable, the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine(PVC) should be given to children below 2.
Dose: Vaccines available are Prevnar13 (PCV13 - Conjugate) and Prevnar7 (PCV7-Conjugate). Since PCV13 is widely available has replaced PCV7. Shots to be given at 2,4,6 and 12-15 months
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