• Pneumovax 23 Vaccine is used for prevention of diseases caused by pneumococcal bacteria such as pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections, and blood infections
• Pneumovax 23 Vaccine is usually given as an injection into the muscle of the upper arm by a doctor or a nurse
• It should not be self-administered
• Only one dose is needed for most people
• A booster dose can be given 5 years after the first dose.
• Some common side effects of this vaccine include fever and injection site reactions (such as pain, swelling, redness)
• If these side effects persist or get worse, let the doctor know
• The doctor may help with ways to reduce or prevent these symptoms.
• To ensure safety, before receiving the vaccine, it is important to let the doctor know if you have any problems with your heart, liver, and kidneys
• You should also tell the doctor about all the medicines you are taking
• Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult and seek advice from their doctor before receiving the vaccine.

Uses of Pneumovax 23 Vaccine

• In Prevention of pneumonia, meningitis, blood infection & ear infection Pneumovax 23 Vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease
• Pneumococcal disease refers to any illness caused by pneumococcal bacteria such as ear infections, sinus infections, meningitis (infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord), bacteremia (bloodstream infection), or pneumonia (lungs infection)
• Anyone can get pneumococcal disease, children above 2 years of age, people with certain medical conditions, adults 65 years or older, and cigarette smokers are at the highest risk and can receive this vaccine
• Most pneumococcal infections are mild
• However, some can be serious
• Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best defense against pneumococcal disease.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Pneumovax 23 Vaccine, please consult your doctor.

Frequestly asked Questions

Is Pneumovax 23 Vaccine a live virus?

No, Pneumovax 23 Vaccine does not contain a live virus. The vaccine is prepared from purified pneumococcal (bacteria) capsule, which is derived from 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria. Though it is not effective against all pneumococcal infections, it protects against a majority of pneumococcal infections.

What does Pneumovax 23 Vaccine mean?

The Pneumovax 23 Vaccine contains long chains of polysaccharide (sugar) molecules. These molecules make up the surface capsule of the bacteria. These polysaccharides are the antigens that trigger the formation of antibodies which help in fighting against the infections.

Is the Pneumovax 23 Vaccine safe?

Yes, Pneumovax 23 Vaccine are very safe. They have undergone years of testing before being licensed by the health authorities and are still under continuous monitoring for safety. Occasionally, there may be slight pain and swelling at the injection site or mild fever, but these subside gradually in a few days. If fever or discomfort persists, consult a doctor.

How long is the Pneumovax 23 Vaccine good for?

You or your child will require one dose of PPSV. A second dose is usually not given until after 3 years of the first dose and is usually not required in healthy people. However, a second dose may be considered usually between 3-5 years after the first dose in people at increased risk of serious pneumococcal infections (such as those without a spleen or if the spleen is not working properly). A second dose within 3 years of the first dose is not recommended due to higher risks of side effects.

Can Pneumovax 23 Vaccine be given prior to or after certain medical procedures?

It is recommended that Pneumovax 23 Vaccine should preferably be given two weeks prior to planned spleen removal or initiation of chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive treatment. Vaccination during chemotherapy or radiation therapy should be avoided. The response to the vaccine may remain diminished following completion of chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer. Therefore, it is recommended that the vaccine should be given at least 3 months after such therapy. If the patient has received prolonged therapy or intensive therapy, a longer delay may be appropriate.

Can Pneumovax 23 Vaccine be received together with seasonal influenza vaccine?

Yes, Pneumovax 23 Vaccine can be given with influenza vaccine or other vaccines but with a different syringe and at a different site. Most people are able to prevent both the infections by responding to both the vaccines at the same time.

Can an individual receive Pneumovax 23 Vaccine if they are not feeling well on the day of vaccination?

If you have a minor illness such as a common cold, then you can receive the vaccine. But, if you have an infection with high fever or some other long-standing illness, then vaccination should be taken only after you recover. Consult your doctor to know whether you can take it or not.

Common and Known Side effects of Pneumovax 23 Vaccine

• Injection site redness
• Fever