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Heptavalent conjugated pneumococcal vaccine (PCV-7) was incorporated into routine U.S. childhood vaccination schedules in 2001. Since then, reports have surfaced about outbreaks or clusters of children with invasive Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 19A disease (JW Pediatr Adolesc Med May 23 2007 and JW Infect Dis Nov 7 2007). This serotype is known for its tendency to cause invasive disease and its resistance to antibiotics. Is the increase in serotype 19A disease a result of natural fluctuation in serotypes or introduction of the PCV-7 vaccine? To find out, investigators in the Netherlands conducted a post hoc analysis of data from a randomized study of PCV-7 dosing schedules conducted before routine use of the vaccine.
Researchers compare…