27 Nov 2023 • Currently, four anti-pneumococcal vaccines targeting different pneumococcal serotypes are available for use in adults with and without immunocompromising conditions. Three (PCV13, PCV15, and PCV20) are pneumococcal conjugate vaccines and one (PPSV23) contains several pneumococcal polysaccharides.

Key Recommendations From The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP)

• Pneumococcal vaccination is not recommended in healthy adults younger than 65.
• Adults aged 19–64 with underlying medical conditions who have not previously received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine should receive either PCV20 alone or PCV15 followed by PPSV23 given ≥1 year later. No PPSV23 is needed if PCV20 is given.
• Adults aged 19–64 with underlying medical conditions who have received only one dose of PPSV23 should receive either PCV13 or PCV20 at least 1 year after their PPSV23 vaccination.
• Adults aged 19–64 with underlying medical conditions (or healthy adults aged ≥65) who have received PCV13 alone should receive either PCV20 or PPSV23 at least 1 year later.
• Vaccine-naive adults aged ≥65 should receive either PCV20 alone or PCV15 followed by PPSV23 given ≥1 year later.

Source: NEJM Journal Watch | Read full story