Merck’s New Pneumococcal vaccine Shows Promise for Children with Chronic Conditions
In a potential breakthrough for vulnerable young patients, merck & Co. Inc. announced Thursday positive results from a late-stage study of its pneumococcal vaccine, Capvaxive, specifically targeting children and adolescents with chronic health issues. Teh findings, reported by Reuters, indicate the vaccine elicits strong immune responses against 21 strains of pneumococcal bacteria, which cause serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.
The trial, involving 882 participants aged two to under 18-all with pre-existing vaccination records and at least one chronic disease-compared Capvaxive to the established Pneumovax 23. Results demonstrated Capvaxive was as effective as Pneumovax 23 against the 12 bacterial strains covered by both vaccines,and showed superior performance against the nine strains uniquely protected by the newer vaccine.
“The vaccine provides extensive coverage and a notable immune response against additional bacterial strains to the existing vaccines,” a Merck statement confirmed. Importantly, the incidence of side effects was comparable between the two vaccines, indicating Capvaxive is as well-tolerated as current options.
Capvaxive is currently approved for adult use in the united States, the European Union, and japan, with ongoing trials focused on expanding its application to pediatric and adolescent populations. Merck’s pneumococcal vaccine portfolio also includes Vaxneuvance (approved for individuals from 6 weeks of age) and Pneumovax 23 (recommended for adults over 50 and children over 2). Pfizer’s Prevnar 20,protecting against 20 strains,is also available for those over 6 weeks old.
Pneumococcal disease spreads through respiratory droplets and poses the greatest risk to children under five and adults over 65.