Effect of a conjugate pneumococcal vaccine on the occurrence of respiratory infections and antibiotic use in day-care center attendees

Background. Incidence and severity of respiratory infections are increased in day-care center attendees. Streptococcus pneumoniae is an important contributor to these infections. Objective. To examine whether the use of a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine could reduce the occurrence of respiratory infections and the ensuing antibiotic drug use in the day care. Method. In this double blind, randomized, controlled study performed in 8 day-care centers located in Beer-Sheva, Israel, 264 toddlers ages 12 to 35 months at enrollment were randomized to receive either a 9-valent conjugate pneumococcal vaccine (conjugated to CRM₁₉₇) or a control vaccine [conjugate meningococcus C vaccine (conjugated to CRM₁₉₇)] and were followed for an average of 22 months. The main outcome measures were respiratory morbidity and antibiotic use. Results. An overall reduction of 7% in child months with ≥1 reported illness episodes was observed among vaccinees (P = 0.008), and 85% of all episodes were related to the respiratory tract. Reductions of 15, 16 and 17% were observed in upper respiratory infections, lower respiratory problems and otitis media, respectively. An overall reduction of 17% in antibiotic days was observed [10% for upper respiratory infections, 20% for otitis and 47% for lower respiratory problems (P ≤ 0.005 for each entity)]. The reduction in episodes and antibiotic use was greater for those <36 months of age than for the older children. Conclusion. The reduction of respiratory problems, including those not traditionally considered of pneumococcal origin and the ensuing lowered antibiotic use in day-care center attendees by pneumococcal conjugate vaccination suggest a broader benefit from the vaccine than preventing invasive disease only.