Types of vaccines
Two newer versions of the pneumococcal vaccine have replaced earlier versions and cover more strains of the infection. PCV20 (conjugated) and PCV15 (conjugated) are recommended. The numbers represent the number of bacterial strains they protect against.
The oldest vaccines are PCV13 (conjugated) and PPSV23 (polysaccharide).
PCV15 or PCV20 It is recommended for adults 65 years of age and older and adults 19 to 64 years of age with certain medical conditions or risk factors.
What is PCV15?
This conjugate vaccine protects against 15 different types of bacteria that cause pneumococcal disease. It is recommended for children under 5 years of age and children between 5 and 18 years of age with certain medical conditions. Anyone who has had an allergic reaction to any PCV vaccine should avoid it.
Your family doctor may decide to give you PCV15 if you are 65 years old or older or if you are between 19 and 64 years old and have certain medical conditions, such as an immunocompromising condition, a cerebrospinal fluid leak, or a cochlear implant. If PCV15 is used, talk to your doctor about receiving a dose of PPSV23 at a later date.
What is PCV20?
This conjugate vaccine protects against 20 different types of bacteria that cause pneumococcal disease. It is recommended for adults 65 years of age and adults 19 to 64 years of age who have certain medical conditions or risk factors. Talk to your doctor about which one is right for you or if you received an earlier version of the PCV vaccine.
PCV20 has been shown to offer a greater immune response.
