Vaccines as antimicrobial resistance control tools: evidence from pneumococcal conjugate vaccines in South Africa

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Vaccinology

Background:

• The Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) has reduced infant mortality by 52% in Africa over 50 years.
• Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat in Africa, causing 250,000 deaths in 2019.
• Vaccines are a proven strategy to mitigate infectious disease and combat AMR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of vaccines on reducing disease burden and antimicrobial resistance in Africa.
• To highlight the cost-effectiveness of vaccination programs in public health.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies on immunisation programs in Africa.
• Analysis of data on infant mortality reduction attributed to EPI.
• Examination of South African studies on pneumococcal conjugate vaccines and AMR.

Main Results:

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines demonstrated significant reductions (67-96%) in drug-resistant pneumococcal infections in South Africa.
• Increased immunisation coverage is linked to reduced overall disease burden.
• Vaccination offers a cost-effective approach to managing infectious diseases and AMR.

Conclusions:

• Expanding immunisation coverage in Africa is crucial for reducing infant mortality and combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance.
• Vaccines are a vital, cost-effective tool for enhancing public health and controlling infectious diseases.
• Continued investment in vaccination programs is essential for sustainable health outcomes in Africa.