Brasília – The federal government has launched a public consultation on the potential inclusion of additional doses of pneumococcal bacterial vaccines in the Unified Health System (Sistema Único de Saúde – SUS), inviting comments on the latest epidemiological data and cost-effectiveness analyses. The initiative is part of the National Immunization Program ( PNI) and seeks to expand protection against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium responsible for severe infections such as pneumonia, meningitis and otitis.

The measure follows the evaluation by the National Commission for the Incorporation of Technologies in the SUS (Conitec), which identified evidence supporting broader vaccination coverage, particularly among children, older adults, and people with chronic diseases or compromised immune systems. The consultation period will allow experts, patient organizations and the general public to contribute to the final recommendation.

If approved, the update could strengthen preventive strategies in respiratory health and reduce hospitalization rates caused by bacterial pneumonia — one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality among vulnerable groups in Brazil. Health authorities emphasize that expanding immunization coverage also contributes to lowering antibiotic use and combating antimicrobial resistance.

Source: O Globo

Want to explore this and other key issues in Brazil’s health system?
Contact us at pharmabrnews@gmail.com