In an August 2022 opinion, the CSS recommends regularly checking the vaccination status of patients and discussing the indications for the pneumococcal vaccine with them. It also advises regularly checking the vaccination status of subjects admitted or residing in a healthcare institution.
Currently, the vaccination coverage against pneumococcal diseases of the adult target group amounts to 18-32% in Belgium. It could evolve to better protect against the following infections: pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis, sinusitis, otitis media and acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, according to the CSS.
A working group chaired by Prof. Yves Van Laethem has determined that patients who could benefit from the vaccine are adults with an immune disorder or other history that puts them at increased risk of pneumococcal infection.
Are also concerned, regardless of age, adults with diabetes or chronic diseases of the heart, lungs, liver, kidneys or nervous system.
Finally, the vaccine should also be offered to people in good health aged 65 and over according to a vaccination schedule explained in the opinion validated by around thirty other experts before its publication.
The Higher Health Council is a federal advisory body whose secretariat is provided by the Federal Public Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment Service. On request or on initiative, it issues scientific opinions relating to public health to the Ministers of Public Health and the Environment, to their administrations and to a few agencies.