Definition
The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine helps protect against severe infections due to a group of bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae. Infections can occur:
-
In the blood
-
In the lungs (
pneumonia ) -
Of the coverings of the brain (
meningitis )
Alternative Names
Vaccine – pneumovax; Vaccine – PPSV23; Immunization – pneumovax
Information
VACCINE INFORMATION
After you get this vaccine, your body’s immune system learns to attack the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria if you come in contact with it. This makes you less likely to get sick from an infection due to this bacteria.
No vaccine is 100% effective. So, it is still possible to get an infection from Streptococcus pneumoniae, even after you have been vaccinated.
WHO SHOULD GET THIS VACCINE
The vaccine is recommended for:
- Cigarette smokers age 19 to 64
- Everyone age 65 or older
- People age 2 or older with a high-risk of infection:
- Includes persons with heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, alcoholism, diabetes,
cirrhosis , cochlear implants, and leaks of cerebrospinal fluid - People with
sickle cell disease - People who have had their spleen removed or whose spleens are not working well
- People who live in nursing homes (extended-care facilities)
- People who live in any institution where there are other people with long-term health problems
- People with conditions that weaken the immune system, such as cancer, HIV, or an organ transplant
- People who receive long-term medicines that suppress the immune system, including steroids
- Certain groups of Alaskan natives and Native American populations 2 years through 5 years old or over age 50
- Includes persons with heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, alcoholism, diabetes,
You need at least one shot of the vaccine. One dose works for most people. You may need a second dose again 5 years later if:
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You had the first shot before age 65
-
Your immune system is weakened
-
You have chronic kidney failure or
nephrotic syndrome -
You have sickle cell disease
-
Your spleen has been removed
The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is not used to protect against pneumococcal diseases in children under age 2. A different vaccine, the
RISKS AND SIDE EFFECTS
Most people have no or only minor side effects from the pneumococcal vaccine. You may have some pain and redness at the place where you get the shot. Serious problems are rare and are mainly due to allergic reactions to a part of the vaccine.
The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is an inactivated-bacteria vaccine. You cannot get an infection from receiving this vaccine.
Call your health care provider if moderate or serious side effects appear after the pneumococcal vaccine has been given. Also call if you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine.
Talk to your health care provider before receiving the pneumococcal vaccine if you have a fever or an illness that is more serious than a cold, or if there is a chance you might be pregnant.
Call your health care provider if you are not sure whether you or your child should get or delay the pneumococcal vaccine.
Related:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease – adults – discharge, Pneumonia – children – discharge, Meningitis, Pneumonia – adults (community acquired)
