[Efficacy of pneumococcal vaccination]

POLYVALENT VACCINE: Pneumococcal vaccination is based on the antigenic properties of polysides carried on the bacterial capsule which induce production of bactericidal serotype-specific antibodies. The 23 serotypes contained in the current vaccine cover 85 to 90% of all strains observed in pneumococcal infections in Europe.

Prospective and retrospective studies have demonstrated that pneumococcal vaccination can prevent 60 to 80% of invasive pneumococcal infections in immunocompetent elderly subjects and/or persons in high-risk groups with underlying disorders.

Immunocompetent persons in the 60-65 year and older age group comprise the target population for pneumococcal vaccination. Incidence and mortality of pneumococcal infections is high in this group. Simple vaccination strategies should be implemented.