Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13)
2021 OCT 30
Preliminary >
Social Justice > Health > Diseases
Why in news?
- Union Health Minister launched a nationwide expansion of Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’,
More about the news:
- It was for the first time in the country that PCV would be available for universal use.
- Pneumonia was a leading cause of death among children under five, globally and in India. Around 16% of deaths in children occur due to pneumonia in India. Thus the nationwide roll-out of PCV will reduce child mortality.
About Pneumococcal disease:
- It refers to any illness caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
- These bacteria can cause many types of illnesses, including pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs.
- Pneumococcal bacteria are one of the most common causes of pneumonia.
- Pneumonia is contagious and can be spread through coughing or sneezing. It can also be spread through fluids, like blood during childbirth, or from contaminated surfaces.
- It can affect people of all ages but can be prevented with vaccination.
- Pneumococcal disease is treated with antibiotics.
- Besides pneumonia, pneumococcal bacteria can also cause - ear infections, sinus infections, meningitis (infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord) and bacteremia (infection of the blood)
About Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13)
- PCV13 protects against 13 types of bacteria that cause pneumococcal disease.
- Infants and young children usually need 4 doses of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
- A dose of PCV13 is also recommended for adults and children 6 years or older with certain medical conditions if they did not already receive PCV13.
Add ons:
- Conjugate vaccines are made using a combination of two different components.
PRACTICE QUESTION:
Consider the following statements regarding ‘Pneumococcal disease’:
1. It is caused by bacteria
2. It is a contagious disease
3. It can affect people of all ages but can be prevented with vaccination
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1,2 and 3
Answer