Children’s Health Queensland infectious diseases specialists are participating in a global trial of a new vaccine that offers greater protection against pneumococcal disease, which puts more than 100 Queensland children in hospital every year.
Families with an infant between 6 and 12 weeks old who has not yet received their 6-week vaccines are currently being sought to be a part of the trial.
Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, there were 103 invasive pneumococcal disease cases reported in children (under 18 years) in Queensland, with 102 of those cases requiring hospitalisation.
Pneumococcal infections can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, blood infections, meningitis (infection of the brain and spinal cord lining), and in severe cases can be fatal.
Children under 2 years old, the elderly and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are among those most at risk.
Pneumococcal disease is caused by infection with the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. These bacteria are often found in the noses and throats of healthy people, especially children, and are usually harmless. However, illness sometimes develops when the bacteria multiply and spread through the body, causing an infection.
Pneumococcal disease is contagious, and the bacteria are spread through direct contact with respiratory secretions, like saliva or mucus.
Pneumococcal vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection. Currently in Australia, the National Immunisation Program Schedule includes a vaccine that protects babies against 13 strains of the pneumococcal bacteria.
Children’s Health Queensland researchers are now participating in an international study, investigating the effectiveness of a new vaccine that protects against 21 strains of pneumococcal bacteria.
Children’s Health Queensland Paediatric Infectious Diseases Specialist, Dr Sophie Wen, said the study would support the advancement of the pneumococcal vaccine and potentially provide broader protection for children.
“Pneumococcal infection continues to cause significant problems in children with serious complications. This is why we are committed to researching new ways to provide enhanced protection against more strains of this bacteria,” Dr Wen said.
"Working alongside leaders in paediatric healthcare worldwide, we are exploring the efficacy of this new vaccine to allow us to translate research evidence into improved healthcare,” she said.
Families who participate in the free trial will receive comprehensive support from the immunisation research nursing team to ensure their baby is healthy. Infants will receive all current national immunisation program vaccinations, administered by specialist immunisation nurses, and will be routinely reviewed by paediatric specialists.
For more information about the study, email Nurse Researcher, Rebecca Doyle on Rebecca.doyle@health.qld.gov.au.
ENDS