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Pneumococcal disease surveillance in Europe
R G Pebody1, W Hellenbrand2, F D'Ancona3
1Health Protection Agency Centre for Infections, London, United Kingdom.
Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) surveillance across Europe is highly varied, with many countries lacking robust systems. Strengthening surveillance is crucial for informed decisions on pneumococcal vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pneumococcal disease (Pnc) causes invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), a significant public health concern in Europe.
- Several European nations are implementing universal childhood immunization programs with pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current state of national surveillance systems for invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) across European Union member states and associated countries.
- To identify variations and gaps in IPD surveillance methodologies and data collection.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was distributed in 2003 to 27 European countries and Norway/Switzerland, with follow-up updates in 2006.
- Data on surveillance systems, case definitions, laboratory testing, and vaccine status collection were analyzed from 22 responding countries.
Main Results:
- IPD surveillance systems were reported by 18 of 22 countries, but case definitions and data collection varied significantly.
- Only 5 out of 27 systems collected data on pneumococcal conjugate vaccine status.
- Reported IPD incidence ranged from 0.4 to 20 per 100,000 population, with 23,470 cases reported over 12 months.
Conclusions:
- European surveillance for invasive pneumococcal disease is heterogeneous, with several countries lacking adequate systems.
- Strengthening IPD surveillance is essential for effective decision-making regarding new pneumococcal vaccines and monitoring program impact.
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