A new vaccine called Vaxneuvance™, developed by MSD, has arrived in Malaysia. This next-generation vaccine offers broader protection against this serious illness compared to previous options.

How does it work? Vaxneuvance™ is a 15-valent conjugate vaccine. This means it contains components (polysaccharides) from 15 different strains of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumooniae attached to a protein carrier. When your body encounters the vaccine, your immune system learns to recognize these polysaccharides and create antibodies. These antibodies can then fight off actual infections caused by these specific strains of the bacteria in the future.

What strains does it protect against? Vaxneuvance™ specifically targets the following 15 pneumococcal serotypes: 1, 3, 4, 5, 6A, 6B, 7F, 9V, 14, 18C, 19A, 19F, 22F, 23F, and 33F. These strains are also responsible for a significant portion of pneumococcal disease cases in Malaysia.

Who can get vaccinated? The good news is that Vaxneuvance™ is approved for children (as young as 6 weeks old) and adults.

Doctors are optimistic. Medical professionals are excited about the broader protection offered by Vaxneuvance™. Prof Datuk Dr. Zulkifli Ismail, a consultant paediatrician, says the new vaccine “addresses the evolving landscape of pneumococcal disease in Malaysia.” This means it can potentially combat strains that may be becoming more prevalent. In addition, he notes that the vaccine provides “a strong immune response to serotypes that pose substantial risk to infants and children.”.

Further, Assoc. Professor Petrick Periyamsamy, an Infectious Disease Specialist, highlights that the new vaccine addresses the adult population by addressing serotype 3 of Streptococcus pnuemoniae. This serotype is most common in the adult population and poses a serious health risk among adults.

When and where can I get vaccinated? Vaxneuvance™ is now available at clinics and hospitals across Malaysia. Talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you or your child.

Key points to remember:

• Vaxneuvance™ is a 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.
• It protects against 15 specific strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
• The vaccine has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials.
• Talk to your doctor to see if Vaxneuvance™ is right for you or your child.

This new vaccine represents a significant step forward in protecting Malaysians from pneumococcal disease. By offering broader coverage, Vaxneuvance™ has the potential to significantly reduce the disease burden and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.