GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) has launched a new generation vaccine for pneumococcal disease with a more affordable price. Vaccines with a generic name PHiD-CV (Non-Typeable Pneumococcal Haemophilus influenzae Protein D Conjugate Vaccine) is to protect children from diseases caused by invasive pneumococcal infections dangerous (Invasive Pneumococcal Diseases-IPD), ie, meningitis, pneumonia and bacteremia, as well as non-disease invasive, such as middle ear infection (otitis media).

The presence of IPD vaccine welcomed positively among health practitioners. Chairman of the Task Force on Childhood Immunization Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI) Prof. Dr. dr. Sri Rezeki S Hadinegoro, SpA (K), said pneumonia is still a major problem in Indonesia today.

"Figures morbidity and mortality from this disease is still very worrying. Therefore, efforts should be accelerated disease control is primarily to pursue the Millennium Development Goals 1990-2015. It is expected that this vaccine can help reduce mortality in children under five years because of pneumonia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, "he said through a press release.

IPD vaccine producted GSK - which is indicated for children between ages 2 months to 2 years - is the latest generation of vaccines after the vaccine PCV7 type of generation that circulate in the community.

GSK's IPD vaccine is to protect children from pneumococcal infections such as meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs) which is the largest cause of death in children under the age of five years and also against acute otitis media (acute middle ear infection).

This vaccine provides broader protection because it consists of 10 serotype (1, 4, 5, 6B, 7F, 9V, 14, 18C, 19F, 23F) and is the first vaccine and the only one that uses a component of the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae and non- -typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi).

GSK's  IPD  vaccine has been launched in over 60 countries and have received prequalification for use globally by the WHO in November 2009 which means it will extend the vaccine for global use, particularly for developing countries.