An analysis of data from three studies showed that the rates of severe pneumonia in infants in their first six months of life was 20% lower overall in infants whose mothers received the influenza vaccination during pregnancy than in infants whose mothers had not, and the rates of severe pneumonia was 56% lower during periods when influenza circulation was highest. These findings correspond with evidence that influenza infection predisposes individuals to pneumococcal infection.
The incidence rate of severe pneumonia in the vaccine group compared to the control group was 43% lower in South Africa, 31% lower in Nepal, but not significantly different in Mali.
Full Citation:
Omer SB, Clark DR, Aqil AR et al.. 2018. Maternal influenza immunization and prevention of severe clinical pneumonia in young infants: Analysis of randomized controlled trials conducted in Nepal, Mali and South Africa. Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. 37(5).
Title of Article: Maternal influenza immunization and prevention of severe clinical pneumonia in young infants: Analysis of randomized controlled trials conducted in Nepal, Mali and South Africa
Author(s): Omer SB, Clark DR, Aqil AR et al.
Publication Year: 2018
Publication Name: Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
Publication Volume: 37(5)
Publication Source URL: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29443825
DOI (Digital Object Identifier): 10.1097/INF.0000000000001914
Topics: Health
Disease Vaccines: Influenza | Pneumonia
Countries: Mali | Nepal | South Africa
WHO Regions: Africa | South-East Asia