Pneumococcal disease is the leading cause of vaccine-preventable deaths in children under five years of age globally. India accounts for nearly 20% of global pneumonia deaths in this age group. Pneumonia is number one killer among leading infectious diseases in this age group. PCV protects children against severe forms of pneumococcal disease, such as otitis media, pneumonia and meningitis.

The vaccine, called pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) is available in private sector and three doses of it cost around Rs 10,000-12,000, which only a few could afford. Now PCV is being provided free of cost to children under a Centre’s pilot programme. The first phase was launched in May 2017 in Himachal Pradesh and some parts of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. In second phase it launched in Rajasthan as a pilot project on 7^th April 2018 (world health day) in nine districts which are with high U5MR– Pratapgarh, Banswara, Dungarpur, Udaipur, Rajsamand, Pali, Sirohi, Jalore and Barmer.

“A lot of children in Rajasthan die of pneumonia that can be prevented through PCV. On success of the pilot in nine districts, it will be extended to other districts of the state,” said Mr. Naveen Jain, mission director of the National Health Mission.

Schedule: Two primary doses at 6th week and 14th week, Booster dose at the 9^th month

Vaccine Type: killed, conjugate vaccine

Storage: Between +2ºC to +8ºC

Dose: 0.5 mL

Site: Antero-lateral aspect of the right mid-thigh in infants.

Is Open Vial Policy applicable to PCV ? Yes, PCV13 (4-dose vial) can be used for a maximum of 28 days.