New vaccine against 23 different strains of pneumococcal bacteria is introduced in Vietnam. (Photo: VNA)

This is the first time Vietnam has licensed and used the vaccine, which will enhance protection against increasingly dangerous streptococcal diseases, such as meningitis, septicemia, pneumonia with septicemia, and community-acquired pneumonia and address the rising antibiotic resistance of streptococcal bacteria.

It is intended for children aged two and above; adults with underlying health conditions; those with respiratory impairments (including persistent cough, hoarseness, breathing difficulties, fatigue, and bronchitis) due to previous COVID-19 infection.

High-risk groups can also benefit from the vaccine, including people aged 65 and above, those with compromised immunity due to HIV, cancer, abnormalities in their liver functions, splenectomy, hemolytic anemia, chronic kidney disease, or nephrotic syndrome; and those using immunosuppressive drugs.