Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13)

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