Abstract
Pneumococcal infections are among leading causes of morbidity and mortality in European countries. Of significant risk are mainly invasive pneumococcal diseases (bacteria, meningitis) and pneumonia.
Pneumonia is the most common manifestation of pneumococcal infection in adults. Pneumococci cause about 40% of all community aquired pneumonia.
The risk of pneumococcal disease is significantly higher in adults over 60 years old, and in defined risk groups, including patients with chronic lung diseases. Pneumococcal vaccination, decreases incidence of pneumococcal infections in this population.