Pneumococcal alarm: How to protect children and older people!

Pneumococcal alarm: How to protect children and older people!

Döbling, Österreich - A promising podcast recently dealt with pneumococci and illuminates the risks, protection options and the role of vaccination. In the episode, which is moderated by Volkmar Weilguni, well-known experts have their say, including Priv.-Doz. Dr. Daniela Schmid from the Medical University of Vienna and Priv.-Doz. Dr. Arschang Valipour from the Floridsdorf Clinic. Their focus is on certain groups that are particularly at risk and warning signals for serious illnesses. The podcast is made by Merck Sharp & Dohme Ges.m.b.H. Supported and is a valuable source of information for everyone who wants to learn more about pneumococci. You can find out more on Spectrum .

pneumococcal caused by the bacterium streptococcus pneumoniae are secret roommates in the nasal throat room of many people without triggering symptoms. It is all the more important to be informed about the dangers that children under the age of two, older people and people with certain previous illnesses in particular. The transmission takes place through droplet infection, for example when sneezing or coughing.

diseases and risk groups

Even small restrictions in the immune system can cause pneumococcons to cause serious illnesses, including middle ear infections, pneumonia or even meningitis. It is particularly alarming that pneumococcons are the most common cause of acute bacterial meningitis in children under two years, while they often cause pneumonia in older adults. Every year, several million people are affected worldwide and the number of unreported cases is high because many diseases remain undetected. In Switzerland, for example, there are around 1,000 heavy pneumococcal diseases annually. Information on this provides the Federal Office for Health .

The division of case statistics clearly shows that healthy carriers in particular can transmit pneumococci. It is therefore important to use your own vaccination options and recommendations to protect yourself and others.

vaccination recommendations and adapted strategies

Vaccination is the best way to prevent severe pneumococcal diseases. It is recommended that all children under the age of five as well as all adults from the age of 65 and people are vaccinated with risk factors. For babies under the age of two, there are special conjugate vaccines such as Prevenar13 or Vaxneuvance, which should be administered in a specified scheme. Premature babies also need refreshment at the age of three months.

For adults with chronic diseases, vaccination with PCV20 is planned to ensure comprehensive protection. People aged 60 and over should also familiarize themselves with this vaccine. Detailed information on the vaccination schedules also offer the healthcare centers on the website of the Robert Koch-Instituts .

Last but not least, it is important to clarify the individual assumption of costs from the health insurance company, as it can vary on a case -by -case basis. Therefore, it is worth taking the initiative in good time and getting information about the latest developments and recommendations on the subject of pneumococci.