EFFECTIVENESS AND COVERAGE OF PNEUMOCOCCAL AND RSV VACCINES IN REDUCING CHILDHOOD PNEUMONIA HOSPITALIZATIONS

Childhood pneumonia remains one of the leading causes of morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality among children under five years of age worldwide. Lower respiratory tract infections account for a substantial proportion of pediatric hospital admissions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Streptococcus pneumoniae and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are among the most significant etiological agents responsible for severe disease. Vaccination represents the most effective preventive strategy. This thesis evaluates the effectiveness and coverage of pneumococcal and RSV vaccines in reducing childhood pneumonia-related hospitalizations based on international clinical, epidemiological, and public health evidence.