Pneumococcal vaccine in the elderly: the Norwegian experience

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology
• Public Health Epidemiology

Background:

• Pneumococcal infections have seen a notable increase in Norway over the past 10-15 years.
• The incidence rate is approximately 20 per 100,000 population, with rates 2-3 times higher in the elderly population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the trends of pneumococcal infections in Norway.
• To assess the impact of a public health recommendation on pneumococcal vaccination rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of pneumococcal infection incidence data in Norway.
• Monitoring of pneumococcal vaccine uptake following a national recommendation.

Main Results:

• Significant increase in pneumococcal infections observed over the last decade and a half.
• Elderly individuals (aged 65 and above) exhibit a disproportionately higher incidence of these infections.
• A 1996 recommendation for pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccination in those aged 65+ has led to increased vaccine administration.

Conclusions:

• The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine recommendation for the elderly has likely contributed to increased vaccination coverage.
• Continued monitoring of pneumococcal infection rates and vaccine uptake is crucial for public health strategies.