Pneumococcal Carriage and Invasive Disease in Children Before Introduction of the 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine

Abstract

Serotype distribution among NP and IPD isolates in Atlanta has shifted to non-PCV7 serotypes; 19A was the leading serotype for both. The multidrug-resistant ST320 strain was responsible for two-thirds of 19A carriage isolates and half of IPD isolates. The predominance of serotype 19A in carriage and IPD among children in Atlanta highlights the potential direct and indirect benefits anticipated by implementation of PCV13 in the community.