Final answer:
For high-risk children aged 6-18 who haven't received PCV13, vaccination is important for preventing pneumococcal disease, including meningitis and pneumonia. Vaccination is especially critical due to rising antibiotic resistance. High-risk individuals usually include those with chronic illnesses, and they should consult with healthcare professionals to receive appropriate vaccinations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children between the ages of 6 and 18 who are at high risk for pneumococcal disease and have not yet received the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) should be vaccinated as per public health recommendations. Pneumococcal disease can lead to severe health conditions, including pneumococcal meningitis and pneumonia. Vaccination schedules generally recommend PCV13 for children under 2, but older children and adolescents with certain conditions may also need this vaccine. Populations that are often considered high risk include those with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, and chronic lung disease. Achieving immunization against pneumococcal disease is crucial because traditional antibiotic treatments can be compromised due to rising drug resistance, making prevention through vaccination even more important.
After introducing other vaccines such as Hib, S. pneumoniae has become a leading cause of meningitis. The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) is another vaccine option that is generally given to vulnerable populations, including young children and adults over 65. However, for children with high-risk medical conditions, PCV13 is recommended even if they are above the routine vaccination age. Consulting with healthcare providers ensures that children get the appropriate vaccinations to help prevent serious complications.