The word meningitis can still fill a parent with fear, even years after the development of a preventative treatment. Blood infections and certain ear infections in infants and toddlers are also the targets of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, Prevnar, which is about 90 percent effective. Before the vaccine’s release, pneumococcal infection was the root of 700 meningitis cases every year. Nearly 40 percent of the bacteria strains–spread by sneezing, coughing, and other close contact–is antibiotic-resistant so inoculation is especially important. The four recommended doses should be given at 2, 4, 6 months, and the12-15 month mark.
For more on the statuts of childhood vaccinations and which immunizations are recommended, see these articles below:
What Shots Does My Child Need?
Hepatitis B
HIB (Haemophilus Influenzae Type B)
PCV (Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine)
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
Rotavirus
IPV (Inactivated Polio Vaccine)
Hepatitis A
MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Varicella (Chicken Pox)
Flu
