Released on October 1, 2003
Saskatchewan Health is expanding its publicly funded pneumococcal immunization program to include high-risk children up to five years of age. Previously, the vaccine was available for high-risk children under the age of two.The pneumococcal vaccine, called Prevnar, will be targeted to approximately 1,000 high-risk children not previously immunized. High-risk children eligible for the vaccine are those with chronic illnesses -- such as lung disease, spleen problems, sickle cell anemia and HIV -- that put them at increased risk for pneumococcal disease.
"Pneumococcal disease can cause serious infections such as pneumonia and meningitis," Chief Medical Officer of Saskatchewan Dr. Ross Findlater said. "Today's program enhancement will allow us to extend protection to those children up to age five, who are most at risk."
The immunization program will begin this fall and will be available through public health offices across the province.
-30-
For More Information, Contact:
| Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083 |