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Preventing pneumococcal disease: intergenerational issues
1University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, Connecticut Arlington, Virginia, USA.
Pneumococcal vaccines reduce disease, but some serotypes remain a concern. Pharmacists should promote vaccination and annual flu shots for comprehensive protection.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Pneumococcal infections affect millions annually in the US, with higher risks for the elderly and children.
- Research for a comprehensive Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccine began in the late 1800s.
- Currently, three pneumococcal vaccines exist, each with distinct characteristics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the landscape of pneumococcal vaccines.
- To address concerns regarding vaccine-preventable pneumococcal serotypes.
- To highlight the role of pharmacists in promoting vaccination.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on pneumococcal vaccines and disease incidence.
- Analysis of vaccine effectiveness and serotype distribution.
- Examination of public health recommendations for vaccination.
Main Results:
- Despite available vaccines, increases in non-vaccine serotype diseases occur in specific populations.
- These increases are generally small relative to overall disease reduction.
- Vaccine effectiveness is sometimes questioned due to these shifts.
Conclusions:
- Pneumococcal vaccines have significantly reduced disease burden.
- Ongoing surveillance and potential updates to vaccines are necessary.
- Pharmacists play a crucial role in patient education and promoting both pneumococcal and influenza vaccination.
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