Expand vaccines that prevent infections and antibiotic demand

Immunization programmes should close coverage gaps for vaccines that already reduce bacterial infection or antibiotic demand, including pneumococcal, Haemophilus influenzae type b, influenza, rotavirus, and typhoid vaccines where indicated. Research should prioritize vaccines against pathogens that drive high antibiotic consumption or resistant disease.

Vaccines reduce resistance through two mechanisms: preventing infections caused by resistant strains, and reducing illness episodes that would otherwise trigger antibiotic prescribing. Surveillance must track serotype or strain replacement and unequal access.