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Pneumococcal Vaccine

Pneumococcal disease is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is a common bacterial cause of lung infections (pneumonia) causing hospitalization, and can also cause other serious infections including brain infections (meningitis) and blood infections (bacteremia).

There are 3 pneumococcal vaccines available:

  1. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13)
  2. Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23)
  3. Pneumococcal 20-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV20)

Who should get the Pneumococcal Vaccine?

  • Adults aged 65 years and above
  • Adults aged 18 years and above with the following medical conditions
    • Chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, heart/ lung/ kidney/ liver diseases
    • Immunocompromised individuals (including patients on long-term steroids/ cancer drugs)
    • Patients with cochlear implants or cerebrospinal fluid leaks
    • Patients with abnormal spleen function

How is the vaccine given?

  • The pneumococcal vaccine is given as an injection into the arm
  • In adults aged 65 years and above, one dose each of the PCV13 and PPSV23 is required for lifetime protection
  • Alternatively, a single dose of PCV20 can replace the need for both the PCV13 and PPSV23 vaccines
  • For individuals with medical conditions, the number of doses and type of vaccine depends on the specific medical condition. Please consult your family doctor for more information

What are the common side effects of the vaccine?

  • Pain or swelling over the injection site
  • Fever, body aches, tiredness
  • Severe allergic reactions: rashes, eye swelling, lip swelling or difficulty breathing
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