Serious Neurologic Sequelae in Cases of Meningitis Arising From Infection by Conjugate Vaccine-Related and Nonvaccine-Related Serogroups of Streptococcus pneumoniae

Introduction of the heptavalent conjugate vaccine for Streptococcus pneumoniae(PCV7) has led to a dramatic decline in meningitis by PCV7 serotypes, raising the possibility of similar trends by PCV7-related serogroups through cross-protection. A present concern, however, is of serotype replacement by pneumococci not related to PCV7 serogroups. If this occurs, there are currently few data to predict whether clinical outcomes will change substantially.