Burden of Pneumococcal Disease and Adult Vaccination Landscape: An Overview with Data and Policy Insights from Türkiye

Abstract

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is responsible for various non-invasive and invasive infections and remains a major source of morbidity and mortality, particularly among older adults and at-risk adults. Vaccination is an effective way to prevent pneumococcal disease, and pneumococcal vaccines have been part of national immunization programs for many years. While vaccination coverage is high in children, uptake among older adults and at-risk adult populations remains below desired levels. This article aimed to highlight the burden of pneumococcal disease in adults, review current pneumococcal vaccines, and present a comprehensive overview supported by data from Türkiye.