Protects against:
Pneumococcal bacteria, pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infections (sepsis), and ear infections
Who should get it:
- All children under 2 years
- Adults 65 years and older
- People aged 2-64 with certain medical conditions:
- Chronic heart, lung, or liver disease
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune systems
- Cochlear implants or CSF leaks
- Smokers and those with asthma
Schedule:
Children (PCV13/PCV15/PCV20):
- 4-dose series at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months
Adults 65+ years:
- PCV20 (1 dose) OR
- PCV15 (1 dose) followed by PPSV23 (1 year later)
High-risk individuals: May need additional doses—consult healthcare provider
Why vaccinate:
- Prevents serious and potentially deadly infections
- Reduces antibiotic-resistant infections
- Protects the most vulnerable (infants, elderly, immunocompromised)
- Decreases hospitalizations and medical costs
- Provides long-lasting protection against multiple pneumococcal strains
- Reduces spread of bacteria in the community
Important note:
Pneumococcal disease causes thousands of deaths annually. Vaccination is the best defense against these preventable infections.