Pneumococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pneumonia. It can cause pneumonia (lung infection), meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), bacteremia (bloodstream infection), ear infection or sinus infection.
Why does my child need protection against pneumococcal disease?
Children under the age of 5 years are at increased risk for pneumococcal disease. Older children with chronic medical conditions such as chronic heart, kidney, liver or lung disease, diabetes, weakened immune systems, sickle cell disease or children who have a cochlear implant are more likely to develop severe pneumococcal disease that can lead to life-threatening complications. For example, pneumonia can cause airway blockages, collapsed lungs and lung abscesses. Pneumonia kills about 1 in 20 people who develop the complication from pneumococcal disease. Meningitis can cause developmental delays or hearing loss. About 1 in 12 children who get pneumococcal meningitis will die of the infection. Bacteremia can result in loss of limbs and about 1 in 30 children with pneumococcal bacteremia die of it.
Which vaccines protect against pneumococcal disease?
Vaccination is the best way to prevent pneumococcal disease. There are two types of vaccines available in the U.S. The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) is recommended for infants and children as well as older adults who need it. The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV) is recommended for children with certain medical conditions and for some older adults.
Are they safe?
Pneumococcal vaccines are safe. Mild side effects like pain or swelling at injection site, decreased appetite, irritability, headache, muscle aches, or fever can sometimes occur after vaccination.
Are they effective?
Pneumococcal disease rates have decreased dramatically since the U.S. began using pneumococcal conjugate vaccine. Rates of pneumococcal infection in children have decreased by 95%.