About the Disease

Streptococcus Pneumoniae accounts for over 7 million cases of otitis media (middle ear infection) in the United States each year as well as being responsible for many cases of pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis. Worldwide, 1.2 million children die as a result of pneumococcal disease. The highest incidence of invasive pneumococcal disease occurs in children under 5 years of age, with the highest attack rates in infants.

Benefits of the Vaccine

Vaccination is the best way to protect against pneumococcal disease. It will not only reduce hospitalization and death from pneumococcal disease, but has been shown to reduce ear infections, and the need for ear tubes. Since Streptococcus Pneumoniae is carried mainly by children, the vaccine will reduce transmission of this bacteria to the elderly, in whom it could be deadly.

Who Should get the Vaccine

• Infants at 2,4, and 6 months with a booster at 12-15 months of age.
• Unvaccinated children ages 7-11 months should receive 3 doses
• Unvaccinated children ages 12-23 months should get 2 doses, at least 2 months apart
• Unvaccinated children ages 2 - 5 years should receive 1 dose
  
  The vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines.

The Risks of the Vaccine

Pneumococcal vaccine has very few side effects. And the risk of the vaccine is much less than the risks of the disease. The reactions noted with this vaccine are similar to those seen with other childhood vaccines. In clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effects were site reactions, fever, irritability, drowsiness, restless sleep and decreased appetite. They usually start within one day of the vaccination, and last up to 24-48 hours.

Warnings

• Tell us if the child has ever had a problem with a previous vaccine.
• It should be administered with caution to children getting anticoagulant therapy.
• It should also be administered with caution to those with latex allergies as the packaging contains dry, natural rubber.

Children with mild infections with or without a low-grade fever can still get the immunization.