Immunisation schedule
The WHO, the Australian Government and the New South Wales Immunisation schedule recommend the inclusion of PCVs in childhood immunisation programmes.1,3,6
When primary immunisation is initiated with one of the PCV vaccines it is recommended that the schedule be completed with the same product. However, if this is not possible the another PCV product should be used.3
The WHO recommends 3 primary doses (3p+0 schedule) with the 2 primary doses plus a boosteR (2p+1) as an alternative schedule.3,5
Efficacy and safety
Currently available PCVs are safe and efficacious and the increased number of serotypes represents significant progress in the fight against pneumococcal morbidity. There are considered safe in all target groups for vaccinations; however, there is no information on the safety of PCVs during pregnancy.3
The 10vPCV and 13vPCV vaccines have comparable safety and efficacy profiles. The choice of PCV is dependent on the locally prevalent serotypes and vaccine supply.3
The 13vPCV has been demonstrated to be safe and immunogenic in both children and adults. It has high global serotype coverage (> 70%) and increased coverage of serotypes causing invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD).4
The differences in clinical outcomes between 3p+0 and 2p+1 may be minimal in the presence of herd protection. Giving 3 primary doses (3p+0 schedule) may be preferred in settings in which disease rates peak before the end of the first year of life and the 2p+1 schedule may be preferred in settings in which duration of protection may be a concern, especially for ongoing protection against serotype 1.3,5
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