Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) drive launched

  • IASbaba
  • November 9, 2021
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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.

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