Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumococcal infection represents a wide range of diseases caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae (or more commonly referred as pneumococcus). While pneumococcus is a common cause of mild illnesses such as sinus or middle ear infections, it may also cause severe or even life-threatening diseases, including pneumonia, septicaemia, and meningitis etc.

How does individual acquire pneumococcal infections? What is theroute of transmission for pneumococci?

Pneumococci are carried on human bodies. They are present in the respiratory tracts even in some healthy carriers. The bacteria can be transmitted via spread of droplet, direct oral contact or indirect contact with articles soiled with respiratory discharges.

For more details, please click below link to Department of Heath HKSAS.

http://www.chp.gov.hk/en/view_content/17982.html