Although pneumococcal vaccines are still relatively new in
the medical world, these vaccines are already saving the lives of many
children, as well as older family members, who could be exposed to and thus,
contact pneumococcal diseases.
Globally, parents need to be educated regarding the seriousness of pneumococcal diseases, particularly with respect to their children. They should be aware that disease protection and prevention are now possible with the administration of pneumococcal vaccines. Parents everywhere are encouraged to contact their family physicians or pediatricians in order to set up vaccination schedules for their children.
What are pneumococcal diseases?
Pneumococcal diseases are
disease processes caused by the pathogenic bacterium, known as streptococcus
pneumoniae, or pneumococcus and are the major cause of pneumonia, as well as
other medical conditions including sinusitis, otitis media and meningitis. (1)
While millions of people around
the world are familiar with pneumonia and streptococcal infections, there are
still those who may not be aware that vaccines can protect their children and
older family members from them. Many people may be surprised when they find out
that such immunization is now possible.
Why is pneumococcal vaccination
so important?
"Pneumococcal disease is
the leading vaccine-preventable killer of young children worldwide, according
to the World Health Organization (WHO), killing over 800,000 and up to a
million children a year. Ninety percent of the deaths occur in developing
countries." (2)
In other words, pneumococcal vaccine can protect children
from pneumococcal disease, as well as prevent the spread of these diseases
around the world if they are immunized.
What is pneumococcal vaccine?
"Pneumococcal vaccine is a
vaccine against streptococcus pneumoniae, which can be of two different types,
namely pneumococcal polysaccharied vaccine and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine."
(3)
Which pneumococcal vaccine is
specific for children?
"In the USA
What is the appropriate
schedule for pneumococcal vaccine, with regard to children?
"The normally 4-doses
series is given at 2, 4, 6 & 12-14 months of age. Protection is good
against deep pneumococcal infections (especially septicemia and
meningitis.)" (5)
Will pneumococcal vaccine
protect children from all possible types of pneumococcus infection?
One must suggest that the
disease protection that a child receives always depends upon the specific type
of vaccine that he or she receives. In other words, pneumococcal vaccine is
effective in the prevention of pneumococcal disease.
"However, if a child is
exposed to a serotype of pneumococcus that is not contained in the vaccine,
he/she is not afforded any protection. This limitation, and the ability of
capsular polysaccharide conjugate vaccines to promote the spread of non-covered
serotypes, has led to research in vaccines that would provide species-wide
protection." (6)
More research is necessary to
cover all possible serotypes of pneumococcus.
In the meantime, is there also
pneumococcal vaccine that is not effective for some children?
"The standard 23-valent
vaccines are ineffective for children under two years old." (7)
Generally, when there is a
disease process, it is advisable to vaccinate children, parents and
grandparents of children, as well as others, in order to reduce the possibility
of the spread of infection and reduce the risk of cross infection.
What vaccine protection is
available for adult family members?
"Pneumococcal
polysaccharide vaccine (Pneumovax is one brand) gives at least 85 % protection
in those under 55 years of age for five years or longer. Immunization is
suggested for those at highest risk of infection, including those 65 years or
older; generally the vaccine should be a single lifetime does, as there is high
risk of side effects if repeated." (8)
What are the current guidelines
from the American
College
"The current guidelines of
the American College
Are there other times when
re-vaccination is required?
“Re-vaccination at periodic intervals is as indicated for
those with other conditions such as asplenia or nephrotic syndrome." (10)
What global measures are there to reduce the spread of pneumococcal disease?
"It was announced in February
2006, that the UK Europe ."
(11)
What other preventative
measures are under way, elsewhere around the world?
"Pneumococcal vaccines
Accelerated Development and Introduction Plan (Pneumo ADIP) is a program to
accelerate the evaluation and access to new pneumococcal vaccines in the
developing world. Pneumo ADIP is funded by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and
Immunization (GAVI). Thirty GAVI countries have expressed interest in
participating, by 2010. Pneumo ADIP Aims to save 5.4 million children by
2030." (12)
Those who have further
questions about pneumococcal vaccine should contact their family physicians or
pediatricians. There is also more information available on the Internet or
through local public health agencies.
3. Ibid.
4. Ibid.
5. Ibid.
6. Ibid.
7. Ibid.
8. Ibid.
9. Ibid.
10. Ibid.
11. Ibid.
12. Ibid.
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