What are the different pneumococcal vaccines?

There are two kinds of pneumococcal vaccines available in the United States:

• Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine or PCV13.
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine or PPSV23.

Should you get Both Prevnar 13 and PNEUMOVAX 23?

Yes, receiving one dose of each vaccine is important to lower the risk of pneumonia. However, the CDC recommends against getting PCV13 and PPSV23 at exactly the same time. If you do need both vaccines, the CDC recommends getting PCV13 first, followed by a shot of PPSV23 at another visit.

What is the difference between the two pneumococcal vaccines?

The main difference between Pneumovax 23 and Prevnar 13 is how many different types of bacteria they target. Pneumovax 23 protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria and is used in adults, while Prevnar 13 protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, and was designed primarily for children.

Should I get Prevnar 13 or PNEUMOVAX 23 first?

When both are indicated, PCV13 should be given before PPSV23 whenever possible. If either vaccine is inadvertently given earlier than the recommended window, do not repeat the dose. One dose of PCV13 is recommended for adults: 19 years or older with certain medical conditions and who have not previously received PCV13.

What pneumonia vaccines are recommended for seniors?

All adults 65 years or older should receive 1 dose of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). In addition, CDC recommends PCV13 based on shared clinical decision-making for adults 65 years or older who do not have an immunocompromising condition†, cerebrospinal fluid leak, or cochlear implant.

What are the two pneumonia shots for seniors?

To prevent pneumococcal disease, there are two types of pneumococcal vaccines: the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) and the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13).

How long does the pneumococcal vaccine last?

65 years old or older: two shots, which will last you the rest of your life. Between 2 and 64 years old: between one and three shots if you have certain immune system disorders or if you’re a smoker.

Why do adults need Prevnar 13?

PREVNAR 13® is a vaccine approved for adults 50 years of age and older for the prevention of pneumococcal pneumonia and invasive disease caused by the 13 Streptococcus pneumoniae strains included in the vaccine.