A Study to Assess the Impact of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccination Programme on the Carriage of Pneumococci

A Study to Assess the Impact of Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccination Programme on the Carriage of Pneumococci

A study taking swabs from the back of the nose (nasopharynx) to look at carriage of pneumococci.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Born in a cohort eligible for routine or catch up pneumococcal conjugate vaccination (i.e. date of birth since 4th September 2004) or a family member where a child is eligible and has been enrolled
• Written informed consent given by the subject's parent/ legal guardian as well as assent from the child after the nature of the study has been explained to them or
• Written informed consent given by the subject after the nature of the study has been explained to them

Exclusion Criteria:

• Moderate to severe disability.
• Cerebral palsy, syndromes and neurological disorders affecting swallowing.
• Ear Nose and Throat disorders affecting the anatomy of the ear,i.e.malformed ears.
• Confirmed or suspected immunodeficiency (congenital or acquired).
• On immunosuppressive therapy.