The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) protect against pneumococcal infections, which are caused by bacteria.
The bactera spread through person-to-person contact and can cause such serious infections as pneumonia, blood infections, and bacterial meningitis.
PCV13 protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria (the types that cause the most common pneumococcal infections in kids). PPSV23 protects against 23 types. These vaccines not only prevent infections in children who are immunized, but also help stop the infections from spreading.
Immunization Schedule
PCV13 immunizations are given to all infants as a series of four injections:
- the first at 2 months of age
- then at 4 months, 6 months, and 12–15 months
Some kids older than age 2 also might need a shot of PCV13; for example, if they have missed one or more shots or if they have a chronic health condition (such as heart or lung disease) or one that weakens the immune system (like asplenia, HIV infection, etc.). A doctor can decide when and how often a child will need to receive PCV13.
PPSV23 immunizations are recommended as added protection against pneumococcal disease in kids 2–18 years old who have certain chronic health conditions, including heart, lung, or liver disease; diabetes; kidney failure; a weakened immune system (such as from cancer or HIV infection); or cochlear implants.
Why the Vaccines Are Recommended
Children younger than 2 years old, adults over 65, and people with certain medical conditions are at high risk of developing serious pneumococcal infections. These vaccines are very effective at preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and even death.
Possible Risks
Kids may have redness, tenderness, or swelling where the shot was given. A child also might have a fever after getting the shot. There is a very small chance of an allergic reaction with any vaccine.
When to Delay or Avoid Immunization
These vaccines are not recommended if your child:
- is currently sick, although simple colds or other minor illnesses should not prevent immunization
- has had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of a pneumococcal vaccine or to the DTaP vaccine
Caring for Your Child After Immunization
These vaccines may cause mild fever and soreness or redness in the area where the shot was given. Check with your doctor to see if you can give either acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain or fever and to find out the appropriate dose.
When to Call the Doctor
- Call if your child missed a dose in the series.
- Call if a severe allergic reaction or high fever happens after immunization.
Reviewed by: Elana Pearl Ben-Joseph, MD
Date reviewed: February 2017
