Babies to get pneumococcal vax from BMC

MUMBAI: The BMC has incorporated the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) in the vaccination schedule for infants. It is known to protect babies against pneumonia and other pneumococcal diseases. “The vaccine will be free in hospitals and clinics to children under the age of one. The city has over 1.5 lakh children in that age bracket,” said additional municipal commissioner Suresh Kakani.
PCV will be given in three doses. The two primary doses will be given at six weeks of age and 14 weeks, and one booster dose at nine months. “As part of the preparation, training is being imparted. Arrangements are also being made for distribution of vaccines, syringes and other supplies,” he added.
In India, pneumococcal disease killed around 1 lakh children under the age of five in 2010. The same year, 5-6 lakh children were diagnosed with pneumonia.