Q: Should I get my 22 months old daughter injected with Prevenar? What benefits does this vaccination provide?

A:This vaccine will prevent pneumococcal infection, a bacterial infection that can cause pneumonia and meningitis (brain fever). However, the protective benefit of the vaccine declines considerably after 2 years as the children tend to get exposed to this infection naturally, which can boost up their immunity without causing disease. The vaccine is very expensive, about Rs. 4000/- per dose. At six weeks age you need four shots but around the age of your baby, two shots will suffice. There are no adverse effects; the vaccine is safe. If you can easily afford the vaccine then it may be better to give it; if not, do not lose sleep over it.