Publication

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines Turning the Tide on Inequity: A Retrospective Cohort Study of New Zealand Children Born 2006-2015

Authored by:

Petousis-Harris, H., Howe, A.S., Paynter, J., et al.

Full Citation:

Petousis-Harris, H., Howe, A.S., Paynter, J., et al. 2018. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines Turning the Tide on Inequity: A Retrospective Cohort Study of New Zealand Children Born 2006-2015. Clinical Infectious Diseases. 68(5).

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Additional key concepts from this publication:

Inequities exist in marginalized populations and minority groups who may have poorer access to health services, including immunizations.

Key Evidence: In New Zealand, Maori and Pacific children have historically suffered high hospitalization rates for invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), all cause pneumonia (ACP), and otitis media. Following the introduction of conjugate vaccines in the country, Maori and Pacific children’s rates of admission for IPD dropped by 79% and 67%, respectively, while significant reductions in ACP and otitis media admissions were also noted, resulting in reductions in disparities for these populations.

Immunization can decrease hospital admissions, thus alleviating pressure on overburdened health systems.

Key Evidence: Following introduction of PCV in New Zealand, hospitalizations of children under 6 years of age due to invasive pneumococcal disease decreased by 73%, due to all-cause pneumonia decreased by 8%, and due to otitis media decreased by 25%.