Pneumococcal Vaccine

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.