Aims: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) have been identified by the World Health Organization as the most deadly infectious diseases and a pervasive public health problem, causing increased hospital admissions, mortality and antibiotic use. This study aims to determine the most common and resistant bacteria that cause LRTIs and prepare an appropriate vaccine to reduce and prevent potential future infections.
Methods and results: Our survey was conducted by collecting respiratory exudate specimens. The most predominant and resistant types were Klebsiella pneumonia and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were extracted using a modified hot phenol method to prepare the vaccine. The LPS were then activated and conjugated. The immunogenicity of the prepared singles and combined vaccines was determined through an in vivo assay using BALB/c mice. The prepared vaccine provided high protection against the lethal dose of both bacteria in mice. The combined vaccine shows a significant value in achieving high immunization.
Conclusion: These findings demonstrate the potential of the bacterial LPS molecules to be used as effective vaccines.
Significance and impact of study: Developing an effective single and combined vaccine against P. aeruginosa and K. pneumonia can protect and reduce LRTI incidence.
Keywords: Klebsiella pneumonia; Pseudomonas aeruginosa; combined vaccine; lipopolysaccharides; lower respiratory tract infections; pneumonia.
© 2022 Society for Applied Microbiology.