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Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine
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| Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine |
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Definition:
This vaccine provides immunization against Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacterium that frequently causes meningitis and pneumonia in the elderly and in people with chronic illnesses. Text Continues Below
Alternative Names:
Vaccine - pneumovax; Immunization - pneumovax Information:
VACCINE INFORMATION
Pneumococcal is an inactivated-bacteria vaccine, which means it uses inactive bacteria to teach the immune system to recognize and fight the causative agent if it is ever encountered. It effectively prevents illnesses caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae in children over 2 years old and adults at risk. Pneumococcal pneumonia accounts for 10 to 25% of all pneumonias.
IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE
The vaccine is recommended for: - high-risk people over 2 years old
- this includes people with heart disease, sickle cell disease, lung disease, kidney disease, alcoholism, diabetes, cirrhosis, and leaks of cerebrospinal fluid
- all people 65 years or older
- people with sickle cell disease or who have had their spleen removed
- residents of nursing homes (extended-care facilities)
- residents of any institution housing people with chronic health problems
- people with immunological deficits (such as cancer, HIV, or organ transplants)
- Alaskan natives and certain Native American populations
A single-dose injection is given. One dose is sufficient for most people. However, revaccination is recommended for people over age 65 who received their first dose prior to age 65 and more than 5 years ago. In addition, people with some of the conditions listed above, especially immunological defects and spleen problems, may need a second dose. This immunization is not effective against pneumococcal diseases in children under 2 years.
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