Abbott, a global leader in healthcare innovation, has introduced PneumoShield 14, a groundbreaking Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV-14) designed to provide extensive protection against pneumococcal bacterial infections in children. With the ability to guard against 14 different strains, this vaccine surpasses the coverage offered by existing PCV-10 and PCV-13 vaccines available in India.

Pneumococcal infections, which can lead to life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, pose a significant threat to children under five years of age, especially those under two. In India, these infections contribute to 14% of child mortality under five years old. Abbott’s PCV-14 vaccine offers a wider shield of protection, aiming to reduce the burden of these diseases.

Enhanced Protection for Children
PneumoShield 14 integrates 14 pneumococcal strains, marking a significant improvement over the current vaccines in private clinics and hospitals. The vaccine employs conjugate technology, which combines a segment of the bacteria with a protein to enhance immune response. This approach strengthens the body’s defense against severe infections.

The immunization schedule for PneumoShield 14 involves three doses administered intramuscularly at six, ten, and fourteen weeks of age. By targeting strains most prevalent in India, the vaccine aims to safeguard children’s health and support their overall growth and development.

Commitment to Pediatric Health
Swati Dalal, Managing Director of Abbott India Ltd., emphasized the critical need for advanced vaccines, stating, “Children under two years are particularly vulnerable to pneumococcal disease, which can impede their healthy development and lead to severe complications. PneumoShield 14 reflects our commitment to enhancing pediatric health by offering broader protection against pneumococcal-related diseases in India.”

Dr. A.J. Chitkara, Pediatrician at Sarvodya Child Care in Delhi, also highlighted the significance of the innovation, saying, “Immunization plays a vital role in preventing pneumococcal diseases, especially in young children. A vaccine with a wider range of coverage like PneumoShield 14 addresses the diagnostic and treatment challenges, offering parents a robust solution to protect their children.”

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National Efforts to Combat Childhood Mortality
Pneumococcal vaccines are a key component of India’s national immunization program, aiming to curb childhood mortality rates. Parents are advised to consult healthcare providers to ensure timely administration of the vaccine for optimal protection.

Abbott’s launch of PneumoShield 14 underscores its dedication to advancing pediatric care and providing innovative healthcare solutions for a healthier future.

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