May 1, 2003

Effects of the Conjugate Vaccine on Invasive Pneumococcal Disease

In 2000, a protein–polysaccharide pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was recommended for use in infants and young children. Surveillance data show that from 1998 to 2001 the rate of invasive disease declined by 69 percent among children less than two years of age. There were also smaller but significant reductions in pneumococcal disease in adults.

The use of the conjugate vaccine is reducing the frequency of pneumococcal sepsis and meningitis in infants and young children, for whom it is recommended. A side benefit appears to be the prevention of disease in adults because of reduced transmission of pneumococci from young children.