S. Pneumoniae
A 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) that protects against seven of the most common serogroups of S. pneumoniae (14, 9V, 4, 23F, 6B, 19F and 18C) is available. In the UK it is given in two doses to infants 2 and 4 months of age and as a booster at 13 months of age (at the same time as MMR vaccination)1. Vaccination with PCV has resulted in large decreases in the incidence of pneumococcal disease, including meningitis, in vaccinated populations and has been found to provide protection in the older, unvaccinated population (herd immunity).
A 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, which protects against 23 strains of S. pneumoniae (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6B, 7F, 8, 9N, 9V, 10A, 11A, 12F, 14, 15B, 17F, 18C, 19F, 19A, 20, 22F, 23F and 33F) is also available. However, this vaccine has a limited period of protection, and is not effective in children less than 2 years of age. This vaccine is recommended for people over 65 years of age and for adults and children over 5 years of age who are at increased risk of pneumococcal disease. This vaccine should also be given in addition to the PCV for at-risk children 2–5 years of age. Risk factors for pneumococcal disease are: chronic bronchitis or emphysema or other serious respiratory conditions; serious heart conditions; kidney or liver disease; diabetes that requires medication; cochlear implants; cerebrospinal fluid leaks; and immunosuppression.
Reference:
1. NHS. A guide to childhood immunisations for babies up to 13 months of age. Available at: http://www.immunisation.nhs.uk/files/275774_Babies.pdf. (Accessed April 2007)
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