Pneumococcal Vaccines

PCV13 - pneumococal conjugate vaccine

capsular polysaccharides from 13 of the most common serotypes that have been covalently attached to inactivated diphtheria toxin protein

initiates T-cell dependent B-cell response with memory B-cell production (that means more robust/ potent)

4-dose series for all children age 15 months and younger

PPS23 - pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine

capsular material from 23 serotypes

gives T-cell-independent B-cell response (that is less effective in young children and the elderly)

given as additional protection to the PCV13 in some high-risk children (e.g functional/ anatomic asplenia) age >2 ya

and adults age <65 with predisposing comorbidities (e.g chronic heart or lung disease, DM, cirrhosis).

Immunocompromised patients and all individuals age >65 should receive both vaccines to maximize production.

recommended for:

• Everyone above age >65
• Cochlear implant
• CSF leaks
• Alcoholics
• Chronic liver disease
• Diabetes mellitus
• immunocompromised or immunosuppressive therapy