According to WHO data from 2021, pneumonia caused the deaths of 740,180 children under the age of 5. This potentially deadly illness can result from bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, with Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria being one of the most common culprits.

In order to reduce both the incidence and the mortality rate from pneumonia, the PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine) is recommended as an effective method of prevention. But just how effective is the PCV vaccine in preventing pneumonia in children?

What is PCV Vaccine?

The PCV vaccine is a vaccine developed to protect against infections caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus). This bacterium is responsible for a variety of severe diseases, including pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.

The PCV vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to recognize and fight pneumococcal infections should the body encounter the bacteria in the future.

There are different types of PCV vaccines available, such as PCV10, PCV13, PCV15, PCV20, and PCV21. PCV10 offers protection against 10 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, while PCV13 provides coverage for 13 strains.

More recent vaccines, including PCV15, PCV20, and PCV21, protect against even more strains, although research into their effectiveness is still ongoing.

In Indonesia, PCV10 and PCV13 are the vaccines used, both of which have been proven effective in preventing pneumococcal infections.

Effectiveness of PCV Vaccine in Preventing Pneumonia in Children

Research and clinical studies worldwide have shown that the PCV vaccine is highly effective in preventing pneumonia, particularly in children.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the PCV vaccine can reduce the incidence of pneumonia in vaccinated children by 30-35%, especially in those under the age of 5. Further studies conducted in various countries have demonstrated that the vaccine is also effective in decreasing child mortality rates associated with pneumonia.

The PCV vaccine has gone through rigorous clinical trials and has been deemed safe for use in children. Common side effects are typically mild and temporary, including redness at the injection site, mild fever, fussiness, or swelling. These symptoms usually resolve within 1-2 days after vaccination.

The Importance of PCV Vaccination in Children

Pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of death in children under the age of 5 in many countries, including Indonesia. Thus, getting the PCV vaccine is crucial for preventing this potentially fatal disease.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF strongly recommend the PCV vaccine as part of routine immunization for children across the globe. They view this vaccine as an essential tool in the fight against child mortality from pneumonia, particularly in regions where infant mortality rates are high.

Vaccination programs that cover a significant portion of the population reduce the spread of pneumonia-causing bacteria within the community. As a result, not only do vaccinated children benefit from protection, but they also provide indirect protection to those who cannot be vaccinated, such as children with certain medical conditions and vulnerable adults.

In Indonesia, the recommended schedule for the PCV vaccine is at 2, 4, and 6 months of age, with a booster dose administered between 12 and 15 months.

The initial doses help the infant's immune system recognize the pneumococcal bacteria and build an immune response. The booster dose strengthens the immunity and ensures continued protection against pneumococcal infections.

It is important to adhere to the vaccination schedule to ensure the child’s optimal protection. If your child misses a dose, it's recommended to consult with a doctor or use the health consultation service available on the Ai Care application, which can be downloaded via the App Store or Play Store.

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