Streptococcus Pneumoniae Bacteria Cause Pneumococcal Disease, Which Is Prevented By Pneumococcal Vaccines

 

Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumococcal Vaccines are a type of immunization used to protect individuals from pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae and can lead to a range of serious infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.

There are currently two types of Pneumococcal Vaccines available: pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV) and pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccines (PPV). PCVs are designed to protect against the most common strains of the pneumococcal bacterium, while PPVs are designed to provide broader protection against a wider range of strains.

According To Coherent Market Insights, Global Pneumococcal Vaccines Market Size Was Valued At US$ 6,615.94 Million In 2022 And Is Expected To Witness A CAGR Of 4.4% Over The Forecast Period (2022 – 2030).

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines contain fragments of the pneumococcal bacterium that are conjugated, or bound, to a protein. This allows the immune system to recognize the fragments and produce antibodies against them. PCVs are administered to infants and young children as part of their routine immunization schedule, typically at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age.

The most commonly used PCV is Prevnar 13, which protects against 13 different strains of the pneumococcal bacterium. This vaccine has been shown to be highly effective in reducing the incidence of pneumococcal disease, including invasive pneumococcal disease, pneumonia, and otitis media (middle ear infection).

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccines, on the other hand, contain fragments of the pneumococcal bacterium's outer coating, known as the polysaccharide. PPVs are designed to provide broader protection against a wider range of pneumococcal strains, but are less effective in young children and infants.

The most commonly used PPV is Pneumovax 23, which protects against 23 different strains of the pneumococcal bacterium. This vaccine is recommended for individuals who are at increased risk of pneumococcal disease, including older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, and individuals with certain chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease.

Pneumococcal Vaccines are considered safe and well-tolerated, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Common side effects may include redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site, as well as fever, headache, and muscle aches. Serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions, seizures, or fainting.

The toxin that causes diphtheria is produced by the bacteria Corynebacterium Diphtheriae. The most common way for diphtheria bacteria to spread from one person to another is through respiratory droplets, including those produced by coughing or sneezing. A toxin produced by the bacterium kills healthy tissues in the respiratory system. The expansion of research and development efforts and a strong pipeline for diphtheria by major market participants may be the driving forces behind the growth of Diphtheria Vaccines.