Role of pneumococcal and typhoid conjugate vaccines in mitigating antimicrobial resistance: report of conference proceeding

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing global health crisis, threatening decades of progress in infectious disease control. Without urgent intervention, AMR could lead to 10 million deaths annually by 2050. Vaccination is a powerful yet underutilized tool in the fight against AMR, as it prevents infections, reduces antibiotic use and slows the emergence and spread of resistant strains. Pneumococcal and typhoid conjugate vaccines (PCVs and TCVs) have demonstrated a significant impact by lowering disease burden and curbing the spread of resistant pathogens. However, despite their effectiveness, vaccines remain largely overlooked in AMR action plans. This manuscript highlights the critical role of PCVs and TCVs in mitigating AMR and underscores the need for greater global investment in vaccine-based strategies. Insights from the Royal Society meeting on Vaccines and antimicrobial resistance: from science to policy (29-30 April 2024, London, UK) emphasize the urgency of integrating vaccination into AMR policies. Coordinated global efforts are needed to prioritize vaccines as a sustainable intervention against AMR, ensuring their broader recognition and implementation in national and international health strategies. Strengthening vaccine coverage can help reduce reliance on antibiotics, limit resistant infections, and ultimately safeguard public health for future generations. This article is part of the Royal Society Science+ meeting issue 'Vaccines and antimicrobial resistance: from science to policy'.