What Is the Pneumococcal Vaccine?
There are two types of vaccines:
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13)—protects against 13 types of the bacteria.
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV)—protects against 23 types of the bacteria.
The vaccines are made from inactivated bacteria. They are injected under the skin or into the muscle. The goal is to prevent getting sick if exposed to the infection later.
Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?
PCV
The PCV is given in 4 doses at 2, 4, 6, and 12 to 15 months. It can also be given to children with certain health conditions. It is advised for all adults aged 65 years and older, as well.
If your child has not been vaccinated or missed a dose, talk to their doctor. More doses may be needed. Also, an extra dose may be needed if your child has certain health conditions.
Adults 65 years old and older may receive PCV followed by PPSV.
PPSV
The PPSV is given to adults aged 65 years and older.
PPSV is also given to anyone aged 2 to 64 years who has:
- Certain long-term diseases, such as:
- Kidney problems such as kidney failure
and nephrotic syndrome
- Cerebrospinal fluid leaks
- Cochlear implants
-
Certain blood cancers, such as:
-
Conditions that weaken the immune system such as:
- HIV or AIDS
- Certain medicines and cancer treatments
- Damaged spleen or no spleen
- An organ transplant
The vaccine is also advised for smokers.
People with certain conditions may need a second dose of PPSV. It should be 5 years after the first dose.
