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Prior to this Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) was given as a part of state immunization schedule in some states like Himachal Pradesh, parts of Bihar, and UP in 2017. It was followed by Rajasthan, Madhya Pardesh and Gujarat in 2018.
Now it is part of recommendation by the Indian Academy of Paediatrics but from January 1 2023, Government has included it in the National Immunization schedule (1✔ ✔Trusted Source
National Immunization Schedule (NIS) for Infants, Children and Pregnant Women
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).
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One more important change made in the schedule was fractionated inactivated polio vaccine booster at 9 to 12 months after the birth. Previously it was administered only at 6 and 14 weeks after birth.
Importance of Pneumococcal Vaccine
Invasive Pneumonia is a deadly disease. It has very high transmission rate and its infectivity can be fatal for some kids. This infection is the cause of high mortality and an important reason for Paediatric Intensive Care Unit admissions. To prevent this spread and control the seriousness of the disease this step has been taken.
The countries that included PCV in their schedule have shown reduction in pneumonia not only in children but in adults as well. This is an indirect effect of the vaccine. It reduces the transmission of the bacteria from children to adults by reducing the number of bacteria in the nose and throat of the kids. It also decreases acute otitis media or ear infections.
The protective efficacy of the vaccine lasts for six years. But if the child is immunocompromised or has HIV then the protective effect may be for a lesser amount of time.
Side Effects of this Vaccine
The most common side effects noted are fever, irritability, reduced appetite, increased sleepiness, or reduced sleepiness. Allergic reactions are very rarely noted.
Reference :
- National Immunization Schedule (NIS) for Infants, Children and Pregnant Women – (https://main.mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/245453521061489663873.pdf)
Source: Medindia
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