Preventing Influenza and Pneumococcal Infections Reduces Adverse Outcomes – MM1702
One of the strategic objectives of the 2011-2020 Global Vaccine Action Plan is for the benefits of immunisation
to be equitably extended to all people and encompasses special groups at increased risk of vaccine-preventable
diseases, such as preterm infants and pregnant women, as well as those with chronic and immune-compromising
medical conditions or at increased risk of disease due to immunosenescence. Despite demonstrations
of effectiveness and safety, vaccine uptake in these special groups is frequently lower than expected, even
in developed countries with vaccination strategies in place. For example, uptake of the influenza vaccine in
pregnancy rarely exceeds 50% in developed countries and, although data are scarce, it appears that only half
of preterm infants are up-to-date with routine paediatric vaccinations.
Modern Medicine – February 2017
