New Pneumococcal Vaccine Introduced to UK Childhood Immunization Programme

Strategic Insights -

A new vaccine designed to protect against pneumococcus, a bacterium responsible for a range of illnesses, is being introduced to the UK's routine childhood immunization programme. The vaccine will be given to children at the ages of two, four, and 13 months, and will also be available for a catch-up programme for children under two and those who have survived a previous pneumococcal infection.

Children under two are at particular risk of pneumococcal infections, with about 500 babies and toddlers in England and Wales treated for the most serious types every year, resulting in one in 10 deaths. The vaccine has been used in the US for the past five years with an excellent safety record and is expected to save at least one child's life every week.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new pneumococcal vaccine will be given to children at two, four, and 13 months of age as part of the routine childhood immunization programme.
  • The vaccine will also be available for a catch-up programme for children under two and those who have survived a previous pneumococcal infection.
  • Children under two are at high risk of pneumococcal infections, with about 500 babies and toddlers treated for the most serious types every year, resulting in one in 10 deaths.
  • The vaccine has been used in the US for the past five years with an excellent safety record.
  • Nine out of 10 pneumococcal infections occur in older children and adults, but a version of the vaccine is available for those deemed at increased risk.
  • Eligibility for the vaccine includes individuals with a weakened immune system due to illness or treatment, as well as those with damaged or missing spleens, long-term liver, kidney, heart, or lung disease, diabetes, or cochlear implants.
  • It is recommended that individuals over the age of 65, and those over two with high-risk conditions, discuss with their GP or practice nurse if they are eligible for the vaccine.

Statistics:

  • About 500 babies and toddlers in England and Wales are treated for the most serious pneumococcal infections every year.
  • One in 10 children who receive treatment for pneumococcal infections die.
  • The new vaccine is expected to save at least one child's life every week.
  • Nine out of 10 pneumococcal infections occur in older children and adults.
  • The pneumococcal vaccine has been used in the US for the past five years, with an excellent safety record.

Sources:

  • Byline: DR MARK PORTER