Q: Pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine has been recommended for our child as an optional vaccine by the paediatrician. Is it really necessary, considering it is priced at Rs.4000 and consists of 3 doses? How effective is the vaccine?

A:This vaccine prevents against some strains of one type of bacteria that can cause pneumonia and brain infection. It is undoubtedly very costly to give a full course of this vaccination. If you can easily afford it, then give it as insurance for one more disease. If not, do not lose any sleep over it.