Strep Pneumonia or Pneumococcus is a bacteria responsible for childhood ear infections, pneumonia and menningitis. The problem is that it has become increasingly resistant to common antibiotics. The peak incidence is in the second year of life, thereafter, it declines until the 60's at which time it rises sharply again. The proposed vaccination schedule is at ages 2,4,6,12 months. Catchup vaccination
between 7 and 12 months of age, is 3 vaccinations 2 months apart. After 23 months of age, 2 injections 2 months apart. High cost and limited availability have been problems. If it works as well as expected, it will greatly decrease childhood Pneumonia, Menningitis and ear infections and spare antibiotics for infections for which a vaccine is not yet available.

        Adult Pneumonia vaccine exists and is distinct from the childhood vaccine. It is recommended for indiviuals over 60 years of age, health care workers, teachers, and some travelers. Given every 5 yrs, it is both available and inexpensive.