Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) drive launched

Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) drive launched

Part of: Prelims and GS II – Health 

Context Union Health Minister launched a nationwide expansion of Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

• It was for the first time in the country that PCV would be available for universal use. 
• Pneumonia was a leading cause of death among children under five, globally and in India.

About Pneumonia 

• A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia.
• Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus is the most common cause of severe pneumonia in children. 
• Around 16% of deaths in children occur due to pneumonia in India. 
• The nationwide roll-out of PCV will reduce child mortality by around 60%
• symptoms of pneumonia: Chest pain when you breathe or cough, changes in mental awareness, Cough, which may produce phlegm, Fatigue, Fever, chills, etc.
• Treatments include antibiotics, antivirals and anti fungal medications.
• Healthy diet, hygiene, vaccinations are some of the ways to prevent pneumonia.