What is the Pneumococcal Vaccine Study?
All babies in Australia routinely receive the pneumococcal vaccine at 2, 4, and 12 months through the National Immunisation Schedule. Some children at risk receive an additional dose at six months.
The pneumococcal vaccine protects against infections caused by the bacteria S. pneumoniae, including mild to invasive diseases like pneumonia, ear infections, blood infections, and meningitis in babies and children.
The current vaccine (13-valent PCV) provides coverage for 13 bacterial serotypes, but other serotypes which are not covered by the vaccine continue to cause disease in babies and children.
Researchers at The Kids Research Institute Australia are studying a new vaccine (21-valent PCV) designed to provide a broader protection for 21 serotypes – eight more serotypes than the currently used vaccine.
Who can take part?
- Healthy babies aged between 6-12 weeks old who have not yet received their six week vaccines.
What does the study involve?
Participation in the study will be for 18-21 months and involve:
- pneumococcal and all other routine infant vaccinations
- up to six visits to the study clinic located at Perth Children’s Hospital
- three blood collections
Participation in the study is voluntary and reasonable travel costs will be reimbursed.
Is it safe?
This study has been approved by the Child and Adolescent Health Service Ethics Committee.
Any person with concerns or complaints about the conduct of this study should contact the Executive Officer on 08 6456 2222 and quote study number PSK03.
For more information or to get involved:
Phone: 0400 450 245
Email: pneumo21@thekids.org.au