The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7 is the only one available presently) is the vaccine that we are referring to.
The PCV7 is very effective in stimulating an immune memory that is important for a good protective effect as well as long-lasting protection. It is also the only vaccine that can be effectively used in children less than two years of age, which is the age range at highest risk of pneumococcal infection and its complications.
The Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine protects against disease caused by seven strains of the pneumococcal bacteria. These seven strains account for up to 80% of the invasive (severe) pneumococcal infections in infancy and early childhood.
The dosing schedule is different for babies or children at different ages. This can range from four doses in babies less than months old, three doses in those six to 12 months old, two doses in those between 12 and 24 months old and one dose in those greater than 24 months old. It is important to note that the earlier the vaccine is taken, the earlier the protection takes effect and hence the vaccine should be taken as early as possible.
Data from the West (where this vaccine has been included in the standard national immunisation schedule) has indicated that it is effective in preventing the disease as well as reducing the carriage of the bacteria. The latter is potentially important for reducing the spread of the bacteria to others at risk, including the elderly.
In fact data also shows that with the widespread use of this vaccine in the USA, the incidence of pneumococcal disease in the elderly has also decreased. This vaccine can be given to infants as young as six weeks of age. Since prevention is certainly better than cure, it is important for parents to protect their child against infection.