Pneumococcal Disease
HOPE is Protecting Generations from Disease
#HopeFightsPneumococcal
ABOUT
Pneumococcal disease, caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, ranges from mild infections like ear infections to life-threatening invasive diseases such as pneumonia, bacteremia, and meningitis. For adults, particularly those with chronic conditions or aged 65 and older, these infections carry significant risk and mortality.
Why Vaccines are Necessary
Although existing pneumococcal vaccines (e.g., PCV13, PCV15, PCV20, PPSV23) have reduced the disease burden, limitations persist:
Serotype coverage gaps: Infections continue from serotypes not included in current vaccines
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Antibiotic resistance: Increasing prevalence of resistant strains underscores the need for better prevention
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Vulnerable populations: Older adults and those with health conditions remain disproportionately affected.
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Evolving epidemiology: Shifts in serotype prevalence demand updated vaccine formulations.
Symptoms of Pneumococcal Disease
Recognizing the signs of pneumococcal disease is critical for early treatment and prevention of severe outcomes. Symptoms can vary depending on the part of the body affected:
1. Pneumococcal Pneumonia (Lung Infection)
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Fever and chills
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Cough with mucus
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Chest pain
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Shortness of breath
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Fatigue and confusion (especially in older adults)
2. Pneumococcal Meningitis (Brain and Spinal Cord Infection)
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Stiff neck
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Fever and severe headache
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Sensitivity to light
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Confusion or altered mental state
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Seizures (in severe cases)
3. Pneumococcal Bacteremia (Bloodstream Infection)
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Fever and chills
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Low blood pressure
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Rapid heart rate
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Weakness or fatigue
These symptoms require urgent medical attention. Older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of developing these serious complications.
Why New Vaccines Are Needed
Although existing pneumococcal vaccines (e.g., PCV13, PCV15, PCV20, PPSV23) have reduced the disease burden, limitations persist:
Serotype coverage gaps: Infections continue from serotypes not included in current vaccines
-
Antibiotic resistance: Increasing prevalence of resistant strains underscores the need for better prevention
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Vulnerable populations: Older adults and those with health conditions remain disproportionately affected.
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Evolving epidemiology: Shifts in serotype prevalence demand updated vaccine formulations.
Join the Fight against Pneumococcal Disease.
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Now enrolling participants for multiple study locations
throughout the Greater Phoenix Area.
The information provided below will allow us to match you with the appropriate study.
You may call us at (602) 288-4673 if you would like to speak with a member of our patient care team. However due of the volume of submissions, filling out our contact form is the most efficient method to get started immediately.
The Promise of Next-Generation Vaccines
Researchers are developing new conjugate vaccines with expanded serotype coverage (e.g., PCV15, PCV20, PCV21) to broaden protection for adults. Future innovations aim for broad-spectrum vaccines that cover more serotypes and induce stronger, lasting immune responses.
Vaccination remains the most effective defense—especially as antibiotic efficacy diminishes. Investing in improved vaccines is essential to stay ahead of the disease.
How HOPE Research Institute is Contributing
At Hope Research Institute, we’re committed to advancing pneumococcal prevention. Our clinical studies focus on evaluating novel vaccine candidates designed for enhanced protection in high-risk adult populations.
Join our mission to expand our defense against pneumococcal disease—and build a healthier future.
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CDC: Overview and seriousness of pneumococcal disease(CDC)
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CDC: Adult risks, vaccine recommendations, surveillance data(CDC)
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NIH PubMed Reviews: Advancements in vaccine formulations (PCV15/20/21)(PubMed, PubMed Central)
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Studies on vaccine gaps and antibiotic resistance(PubMed Central, PubMed)
Learn More / Get Involved
To learn more, please call 602-288-4673 to speak with one of our patient care specialists or sign up online by clicking the "Sign Up" button at the top of the page