Latest news with #Streptococcuspneumoniae
Business Upturn
3 days ago
- Health
- Business Upturn
Pfizer shares jump over 2% after launch of next-gen 20-valent pneumococcal vaccine in India
By Aditya Bhagchandani Published on August 12, 2025, 09:40 IST Shares of Pfizer Limited rose 2.07% to Rs 5,165.50 on Tuesday, August 12, following the company's announcement of the launch of its next-generation 20-valent Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Conjugate Vaccine (PCV20) for adults in India. The stock traded in a range of Rs 5,098.50 to Rs 5,200.00 during the session, with a market capitalization of Rs 2.36 lakh crore and a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.79. Launched on August 11, 2025, PCV20 is designed to protect against 20 clinically relevant serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae, offering the broadest coverage among conjugate vaccines available in India. Approved for adults aged 18 years and older, it is administered as a single-dose shot, potentially eliminating the need for a second dose. Pfizer stated that the vaccine will help address the growing need for adult immunization, especially among those over 50 years of age and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, chronic kidney disease, and diabetes. The company noted that the introduction of PCV20 builds on its 25-year legacy in pneumococcal vaccine innovation and strengthens its commitment to preventive healthcare in India. Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Stock market investments are subject to market risks. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions. Author or Business Upturn is not liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Ahmedabad Plane Crash Aditya Bhagchandani serves as the Senior Editor and Writer at Business Upturn, where he leads coverage across the Business, Finance, Corporate, and Stock Market segments. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to journalistic integrity, he not only contributes insightful articles but also oversees editorial direction for the reporting team.
The Star
04-08-2025
- Health
- The Star
More protection against pneumonia with newly-approved vaccine
Young children are one of the high-risk groups for developing serious and potentially fatal pneumonia. — Canva Malaysians can now be protected against 20 strains of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae , which is one of the main causes of pneumonia. This follows the recent announcement that the Health Ministry has approved the 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) by American pharmaceutical company Pfizer. This new vaccine offers protection against an additional seven serotypes of S. pneumoniae , also known as pneumococcus, compared to its 13-valent predecessor (PCV13). These include newer strains associated with antibiotic resistance and high death rates. Professor Dr Mark van der Linden, who heads the national reference centre for Streptococci in Germany, notes that scientists have been racing to keep up with the evolving strains of pneumococcus. 'There are currently 107 known serotypes. 'We're not creating new ones; they evolve naturally. 'Pneumococcus reproduces every 30 minutes, so it adapts far faster than humans,' he shares. The first conjugate vaccine, which was developed specifically for use in young children, targeted the seven serotypes that caused the majority of pneumococcal disease. This 7-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) was introduced in Malaysia over two decades ago. As vaccination reduced these strains, others emerged – a process called serotype replacement. 'We saw a 40% drop in cases, but new strains emerged. 'That's why vaccines must continuously evolve. 'We can't cover all 107, but expanding coverage is essential, especially for high-risk groups,' says Prof van der Linden. ALSO READ: How vaccines are developed Meanwhile, consultant clinical microbiology and infection physician Dr Teresa Wang Kin Fong from Hong Kong explains that based on data from the Chinese territory, invasive pneumococcal disease is now more common among adults than children. 'We used to give adults the polysaccharide vaccine PPV23, but it had limited effectiveness. 'Pfizer later developed PCV7, and at one point, we [in Hong Kong] implemented a combined adult programme using both PPV23 and PCV7. 'Now with PCV20, we can skip PPV23 entirely. 'PCV20 offers broader protection and simplifies the process to a single dose, making it more convenient for patients and doctors alike.' In Malaysia, vaccine uptake among adults remains low. 'This is largely due to the outdated perception that vaccines are only for children,' notes Malaysian Society of Infectious Diseases and Chemotherapy past president Prof Dr Zamberi Sekawi. Adults with chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure and lung disease, are especially vulnerable to developing severe pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. ALSO READ: Rebooting the adult immune system when it becomes less effective Vaccinating adults not only protects individuals, but also reduces transmission within households. 'When one family member brings home an infection, the whole household is at risk. 'Vaccinating adults helps break that chain,' Prof Zamberi adds. This is important as both young children and the elderly are also vulnerable to developing severe pneumonia. 'Children are born with immature immune systems. 'As we age, our immune system weakens – a process called immunosenescence. 'That's why both groups need the most protection,' says consultant paediatrician Prof Datuk Dr Zulkifli Ismail. Since the Covid-19 pandemic, parental concerns about vaccination have shifted from cultural or religious questions to fear of side effects. 'I've had parents who declined the pneumococcal vaccine, only to return later after their child was hospitalised. 'Sadly, by then it's too late,' shares Prof Zulkifli. ALSO READ: Addressing the concerns that trigger vaccine hesitancy PCV20 is approved for use in both children and adults starting from the age of six weeks onwards.
Medscape
30-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Empaveli Approved for C3G and Primary IC-MPGN
The FDA has approved pegcetacoplan (Empaveli, Apellis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) for the treatment of C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) or primary immune complex membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (IC-MPGN) in patients aged 12 years and older. C3G and primary IC-MPGN are rare kidney diseases affecting approximately 5000 people in the US, particularly adolescents or young adults. They often lead to kidney failure requiring dialysis or kidney transplant. In the recently released Phase 3 VALIAN Trial 52-week results, patients receiving pegcetacoplan achieved and maintained a significant reduction in proteinuria over baseline, with a mean urine protein-to-creatinine ratio change at week 26 of -68.1% and at week 52 of -67.2%. In addition, the pegcetacoplan group showed a reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate levels of -1.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 at week 26 and -3.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 at week 52. The most common adverse reactions were infusion site reactions, pyrexia, nasopharyngitis, influenza, cough, and nausea, according to a company press release. The product will carry a black box warning stating, 'Empaveli, a complement inhibitor, increases the risk of serious infections, especially those caused by encapsulated bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, and Haemophilus influenzae type B. 'Because of the risk of serious infections caused by encapsulated bacteria, Empaveli is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the EMPAVELI REMS.' Kathleen Dallessio is the Senior Editor for Diabetes & Endocrinology and Nephrology at Medscape Medical News.
Medscape
25-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
Social Factors Affect Access to RSV Prophylaxis in Children
TOPLINE: Only about one third of eligible children born outside the typical respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) season received nirsevimab, a monoclonal antibody for RSV prophylaxis. Older age, Black race, and public insurance were associated with reduced rates of receipt. METHODOLOGY: Researchers conducted a retrospective study to examine how many children born outside the typical RSV season (October to March) received nirsevimab and which factors influenced its receipt, such as age, race, insurance type, and residing in low- vs high-opportunity areas (measured by an index indicating neighborhood features that support child development). They included children younger than 8 months who received care across 32 pediatric primary care practices in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, all of which had nirsevimab available. A total of 7208 eligible children born between April and September 2023 (average age at the start of RSV season, 3.5 months; 49% girls; 51.3% White) were included. All had at least one visit to primary care within 14 days of birth and at least one visit after reaching 8 months of age or after the RSV season ended. TAKEAWAY: Overall, 35% of eligible children received nirsevimab, and uptake varied by practice from 20% to 65%. Of those who received nirsevimab, 53.1% were White and 64.4% had private insurance. Older age was associated with reduced odds of receiving nirsevimab (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.60; 95% CI, 0.58-0.62 for each additional month). Children with low weight at birth had higher odds of receiving nirsevimab (aOR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.13-1.82). Children who were Black vs White (aOR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.43-0.65), with public vs private insurance (aOR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.67-0.92), and living in very low- vs very high-opportunity areas (aOR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.54-0.91) had significantly lower odds of receiving nirsevimab. Among children fully vaccinated against diphtheria, Haemophilus influenzae type B, poliovirus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, tetanus, and pertussis, 38.7% received nirsevimab. IN PRACTICE: 'The identification of sociodemographic factors associated with receipt of nirsevimab emphasizes the importance of examining the drivers of these disparities to inform interventions designed to ensure more equitable uptake so that all children are protected from RSV,' the authors of the study concluded. SOURCE: This study was led by Mahaa M. Ahmed, MS, of the Clinical Futures at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in Philadelphia. It was published online on July 17, 2025, in Pediatrics. LIMITATIONS: The data represented practices in only one care network, and the findings may not be generalizable. Infants entering their first RSV season were included, which prevented the evaluation of nirsevimab uptake among children at high risk entering their second season of RSV. This retrospective study used electronic health records and could not capture family preferences, knowledge of nirsevimab, or interactions between families and clinicians during vaccination opportunities. DISCLOSURES: This study received support from the Infectious Diseases Society of America's Grants for Emerging Researchers/Clinicians Mentorship program and the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society's Supporting Research and Promoting Pediatric ID program. The authors reported having no conflicts of interest. This article was created using several editorial tools, including AI, as part of the process. Human editors reviewed this content before publication.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Measles isn't over when the rash fades: 8 critical health problems that can follow the infection
We all know measles is brutal while it's happening—rash, fever, cough, those ugly red eyes. But what too many people miss is that the danger doesn't end when the rash clears. Measles has a sneaky villain arc: it weakens your immune system, opens doors to other infections, and can even come back to haunt you years later. Let's unpack the aftermath of measles beyond the obvious. Measles is making a troubling comeback in the U.S.—and it's hitting a 33-year high. As of mid-2025, health officials have reported more cases than we've seen since the early 1990s. What's fueling the surge? A mix of lower vaccination rates, international travel, and misinformation. The disease, once thought nearly wiped out, is now popping up in schools, airports, and even summer camps. Most of the cases are in kids and young adults who weren't vaccinated or only got one dose. And let's be clear—measles isn't just a rash and a fever. It can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling, hearing loss, and other long-term damage. Health experts are sounding the alarm, urging people to check their vaccination status. This isn't just a little outbreak—it's a wake-up call. The virus is contagious, serious, and it's definitely not something you want to take lightly. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Mercado Libre CFD: Empieza a invertir con $100 [Descubre más] Actualidad-CL Más información Undo Immune amnesia: When your defense forgets Measles doesn't just attack; it erases. After infection, it wipes out most of your immune memory cells—the ones that remember how to fight off everything from the flu to chickenpox. This isn't minor; it's like your immune system taking a several‑year timeout. You might shake off measles, but your body is suddenly defenseless against other diseases. Studies show increased vulnerability to pneumonia, ear infections, diarrhea, meningitis, and more for the next 2–3 years, possibly even longer . One real-world study from Brazil found that measles outbreaks weren't just about measles—they correlated with higher non- measles infection deaths among kids. It's a domino effect: measles knocks you down, and something else starts. Respiratory infections Ever had measles and thought the cough would never quit? That's because pneumonia—or bronchial pneumonia —often tags along. In kids under five, this is the deadliest complication. Either the measles virus itself wrecks lung tissue, or bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae swoop in for the kill. Suddenly, what started as a rash and sniffle becomes a full-blown fight to breathe. Hospitals see a flood of young patients during outbreaks. Even if survival rates are high with antibiotics, it leaves parents nervous—and kids weaker than before. Diarrhea and dehydration Measles doesn't just mess with your lungs—it storms your gut too. Persistent diarrhea is super common, especially in toddlers, and it drains them fast. Fluids that should cushion their organs get flushed out. Before you know it, you've got a dehydrated kid who won't eat, cries more, and has sunken eyes. In developing countries, diarrhea from measles is a major killer. Even here, it can send kids to IV ports and pediatric wards. Ear infections (otitis media) About one in ten kids with measles walk home with ringing ears —or worse, hearing loss. That's because the virus inflames the eustachian tube and middle ear, setting up a perfect stage for bacterial takeover. Their little ears fill with fluid, pressure builds, and they cry more than usual. If you don't treat it fast—antibiotics and ear drainage—it can scar the eardrum or mess with hearing long-term. Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) This one is the worst slow-burn tragedy: SSPE. Years—7 to 10—after a measles infection, usually in unvaccinated kids, they reappear as another illness. At first it's subtle: behavioral changes, mood swings. But as it progresses, they develop seizures, muscle spasms, memory loss. Their brain literally shrivels. SSPE is progressive. It's heartbreaking because it affects kids who seemed fine post-measles. Myocarditis Your heart getting measles isn't common, but when it does, it's scary. Myocarditis means inflammation—your heart muscle gets swollen, irritated, and can't pump well. After measles, it can sneak up with chest pain, fatigue, irregular heartbeat—but sometimes symptoms barely register until things go sideways. Doctors treat it carefully, balancing fluids and watching heart rhythm on monitors. Many recover with full heart function, but some are left with lingering weakness or may need long-term meds. You survive the worst rash of your life, and then your heart decides it's its turn to stage a crisis—it's not cool. Blindness Measles can go for your eyes in a big way. The virus can trigger keratitis (corneal inflammation) or corneal ulcers, especially in kids who aren't getting vitamin A. Those are like painful open sores on your eye. The worst part? In shelters or impoverished regions, kids lose their vision entirely because healing is shot. Even in wealthier countries, vitamin A supplementation and eye drops can only do so much—once damage is done, there's no rewind button. Imagine recovering from measles only to find yourself blind. That's why ophthalmologists push vitamin A during measles outbreaks. Pregnancy complications Pregnant moms, watch out—measles isn't just selfish about who it infects; it messes with babies, too. Pregnant women who catch it face higher risks: miscarriage, premature labor, or delivering low-birth-weight infants. Even if mom survives, babies can struggle to thrive or come out medically fragile. It's not enough to just blanket worry—it's urgent. That's why obstetricians push on vaccination and avoid travel during outbreaks. Measles in pregnancy isn't a 'mild infection'—it targets two lives at once, and health teams tiptoe to save both. Each complication highlights that measles isn't just a rash and runny eyes—it's a full-body troublemaker. Stay safe, get vaccinated, and recognize those ripples before it's too late. This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The health effects and complications of measles discussed are based on current medical literature and public health data as of July 2025. Readers are encouraged to consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance. Measles-related risks may vary depending on age, vaccination status, and individual health conditions. Always verify outbreak updates and medical recommendations through official health authorities like the CDC or WHO.
