Brazil adds 20‑valent pneumococcal vaccine to public immunization programme

The Ministry of Health has incorporated the 20‑valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Pneumo 20) into Brazil's National Immunization Calendar, replacing the previous 10‑valent version. The new formulation protects against 20 serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae, expanding coverage against pneumonia, meningitis, sepsis, otitis media and other invasive pneumococcal diseases.

Since May, more than 570 000 doses have been distributed to states, with a target of over 6.1 million doses by the end of the year. Vaccination is offered free of charge through the SUS to children under five, infants as young as two months, and special risk groups such as institutionalised seniors, indigenous children and patients with certain clinical conditions. The schedule follows a 2‑month first dose of Pneumo 20, a 4‑month second dose of Pneumo 10, and a booster at 12 months with Pneumo 20.

Cities across the country, including Nova Iguaçu, Caxias do Sul, Limeira, Bauru, Guarulhos, Tabooã da Serra and others, have opened vaccination points in their basic health units. Local health officials report strong uptake, with hundreds of children already immunised and demand continuing to rise.