Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumococcal vaccines are a type of immunization that protects against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. These bacteria can cause serious illnesses like pneumonia, meningitis, and blood infections.

There are actually two main types of pneumococcal vaccines:

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs): These are recommended for children younger than 5 years old. PCV vaccines come in two forms: PCV15 (Prevnar 13®) and PCV20 (Prevnar 20®). The number indicates how many strains of pneumococcal bacteria the vaccine protects against.
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23): This vaccine is typically recommended for adults 65 and older, as well as adults with certain medical conditions that put them at higher risk for pneumococcal infections. PPSV23 protects against a broader range of strains (around 23) compared to PCV vaccines.
• Both types of pneumococcal vaccines are very effective in preventing serious pneumococcal infections. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccine is right for you, especially for adults with underlying health conditions.