What is the importance of using pneumococcal conjugate vaccines in India?

1. These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis.
2. Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced.
3. These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions.

Select the correct answer using the given code below:

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines are designed to protect against infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, which can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
  • A conjugate vaccine is one that combines a weak antigen with a strong antigen as a carrier so that the immune system has a stronger response to the weak antigen.
• Streptococcus pneumoniae is the leading cause of bacterial pneumonia in children under five years.
• Young children, the elderly, and those whose immune system is suppressed or are malnourished are at an increased risk of getting pneumococcal disease.
• The vaccine is given in two primary doses at 6 and 14 weeks, followed by a booster dose at 9 months. This vaccine is provided under Universal Immunisation Program.

Statement 2 is correct

• By preventing infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, PCVs reduce the need for antibiotics, which in turn helps lower the risk of antibiotic resistance. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to the rise of drug-resistant bacteria, and vaccination is an effective strategy to reduce this dependence, thus combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Statement 3 is incorrect

• No vaccine is entirely without side effects. While pneumococcal vaccines are generally safe and effective, they can have some side effects, like any other vaccine. Common side effects may include mild pain or swelling at the injection site, fever, or fatigue. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.

Answer: (d) 1 and 2 only; Difficulty Level: Easy