Govt Congratulated on Pneumococcal Decision

For Release: Monday 7th May 2007 06.00 NZ

Media Contact: Ian McKnight: (61) 412 015 785

WYETH CONGRATULATES NZ GOVERNMENT ON DECISION TO MAKE PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE FREE TO NEW ZEALAND INFANTS

Wyeth, makers of Prevenar (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, 7-valent) the first and only vaccine specifically developed to help protect infants and young children from pneumococcal disease, today welcomed the Government’s decision to fully fund a childhood pneumococcal vaccination program.

Managing Director, Erica Mann, said pneumococcal disease can be a very serious and sometimes fatal illness. It can cause meningitis, pneumonia, bacteraemia and otitis media – all of which may cause serious disabilities.

“The decisive step taken by the Government to provide the latest in vaccine technology to all New Zealand infants is to be applauded and is indicative of its commitment to protect children from these types of debilitating diseases,” Ms Mann said.

New Zealand Country Manager, Kerry Tannion, said New Zealand infants will now have free access to the pneumococcal vaccine when it is incorporated into the National Immunisation Schedule next year.

“Approximately 150 children under 5 years of age fall victim to invasive pneumococcal disease every year, with Maori and Pacific Island children most at risk. Universal vaccination in Australia, the USA and other countries has been effective in reducing the disease burden in children under two. We are hopeful of similar results for New Zealand”, Mr. Tannion said

“We look forward to working with the Government as we further educate and raise awareness of this important vaccine amongst health care professionals and parents,” he said.

About Pneumococcal Disease

Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, and may manifest as a number of illnesses, including meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain), bacteraemia (blood infection), pneumonia (lung infection) and otitis media (middle ear infection).

Pneumococcal disease affects both children and adults and, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is a leading cause of death and illness worldwide. WHO estimates that pneumococcal disease results in up to 1 million deaths each year in young children worldwide.

Further, according to WHO, pneumococcal disease is the number one vaccine-preventable cause of death in children less than five years of age worldwide.

About Prevenar (Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, 7 valent)

Prevenar is indicated for the active immunization of infants and children from 6 weeks to 9 years of age against invasive disease, pneumonia and otitis media caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacterium (serotypes 4, 6B, 9V, 14, 18C, 19F and 23F). Normally, children will receive three doses of the vaccine, at least 4 weeks apart, starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age with a booster dose at 12-15 months of age. Four is the maximum number of doses required. As with all vaccines, 100% protection cannot be guaranteed. Your child should not receive Prevenar if he or she has ever had an allergic reaction to pneumococcal or diphtheria vaccines, latex, or any other ingredients of the vaccine.

Vaccination should be delayed if your child has a fever or infection requiring a visit to the doctor. The following side effects could occur at the injection site: pain, discomfort, tenderness, a rash, redness, swelling, or a lump. Other side effects that may occur include fever, irritability, drowsiness, restless sleep, decreased appetite, vomiting and diarrhoea. Rare side effects include allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling, difficulty breathing), and seizures.

A full copy of the Prevenar Consumer Medicine Information can be found at http://www.medsafe.govt.nz/Consumers/cmi/p/prevenar.htm.

ENDS

See... Prevenar Consumer Information (PDF)

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