Significance of the Pneumococcal Vaccine to Children`s Health: Research Conducted in Drachevo and its Environment (2015-2018)

Introduction: Streptococcus pneumoniae is an invasive bacillus and a trigger of upper and lower respiratory infections. The invasive strain and the child’s immune response are the focal factors to whether it will spread to a
disease or will remain within the frame of a carriage status.

Aim: With the introduction of a vaccine that is not on a regular vaccine calendar, the number of children infected with rhinosinusitis, otitis and pneumonia, has dropped significantly.

Methods and Investigations: A study of 325 children has been conducted in the period of 2015-2018, out of which, 191 males and 134 females, carriers of pneumococci in nasopharynx. 242 children attend kindergarten and 83 are taken care of at home. Depending on the clinical presentation, a symptomatic and antibiotic treatment has been provided. After receiving 1 to 2 doses of the vaccine, the number of paediatrician visits decreased dramatically. Also, outstanding effect has been detected to the sample who received 2 doses.

Conclusion: Although the pneumococcal vaccine is not mandatory in the vaccine calendar, it delivers great benefits including reduced usage of antibiotics. It is my personal regret that it’s not available yet in my country and the
children remain unprotected, therefore, I appeal for its procurement since it’s vital for the health of children between the age of 9 months and 3 years.