What is the Epidemiological Impact of Pneumococcal Vaccination?
The introduction of pneumococcal vaccines has significantly reduced the incidence of pneumococcal disease. Herd immunity plays a crucial role, as vaccinated individuals indirectly protect those who are unvaccinated by reducing the overall transmission of the bacterium. Studies have shown a substantial decline in invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) rates in countries with high vaccination coverage.
