Q: My question is about seven valent pneumococcal saccharide conjugated vaccine. This is being used in the US for quite sometime but can the same be used in India too? Is this vaccine helpful and recommended?

A:A. The seven-valent pneumococcal vaccine in use in the USA has to the best of my knowledge not been tested adequately for efficacy in all age groups in India. Further, the pneumococcal strains causing the infection in USA and India are different. The current IAP policy does not recommend routine use of this vaccine in Indian children. If you are unduly concerned and want to give the vaccine to your child, it may be given. B. The evidence to guide you regarding the quantum benefit is not available from the Indian setting.