the 13-Valent Pneumococcal Vaccine for Adults

Q: the 13-Valent Pneumococcal Vaccine for Adults

Dear Ms. <br>R：<br>Streptococcus pneumoniae is a Gram-positive bacterium, currently known to have over 90 serotypes; the capsular polysaccharide on the bacterial surface is associated with its pathogenicity. <br>In our country, there are currently two types of pneumococcal vaccin

Administration of the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in adults?

Hello, doctor.
My mother is 58 years old and wishes to receive the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.
However, the doctor informed us that this vaccine can only be administered once in a lifetime, and that the antibodies may decline over the years, making it uncertain if a booster can be given later.
We couldn't find relevant information online, so we kindly ask for your clarification.
Thank you.

R, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/24

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
R:
Streptococcus pneumoniae is a Gram-positive bacterium, currently known to have over 90 serotypes; the capsular polysaccharide on the bacterial surface is associated with its pathogenicity.
In our country, there are currently two types of pneumococcal vaccines available for adults:
1.
13-valent conjugate pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13): This is an inactivated vaccine that contains 13 serotypes (1, 3, 4, 5, 6A, 6B, 7F, 9V, 14, 18C, 19A, 19F, 23F).
It is suitable for infants over 6 weeks old, adolescents, adults, and the elderly.
It contains antigens from 13 pneumococcal serotypes, which can activate T cell lymphocytes in the body.
While the coverage is limited, it includes the 13 most pathogenic serotypes, and T cell lymphocytes have a long-lasting memory, thus providing prolonged effectiveness.
2.
23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23): This is also an inactivated vaccine that contains 23 serotypes (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6B, 7F, 8, 9N, 9V, 10A, 11A, 12F, 14, 15B, 17F, 18C, 19F, 19A, 20, 22F, 23F, 33F).
It is suitable for general adults and children over 2 years old.

Regarding recommendations for adults aged 18 (inclusive) to under 65 years who wish to receive the vaccine at their own expense, the following is suggested:
1.
If never vaccinated: First receive 1 dose of PCV13, then wait at least 8 weeks to receive 1 dose of PPV23, and after at least 5 years, receive a second dose of PPV23.
2.
If 1 dose of PPV23 has been received: Wait at least 1 year to receive 1 dose of PCV13; then, after at least 8 weeks from PCV13, and at least 5 years from the previous PPV23, receive a second dose of PPV23.
This vaccine contains antigens from 23 pneumococcal serotypes, which can rapidly activate B cell lymphocytes and provide broader protection, but the protective effect lasts approximately 5-10 years, after which re-vaccination is necessary.
3.
If 2 doses of PPV23 have been received: Wait at least 1 year from the previous PPV23 to receive 1 dose of PCV13.
4.
If 1 dose of PCV13 has been received: Wait at least 8 weeks to receive 1 dose of PPV23, and after 5 years, receive a second dose of PPV23.
5.
If 1 dose of PCV13 and 1 dose of PPV23 have been received: Wait at least 5 years from the previous PPV23 to receive a second dose of PPV23.
In fact, the conclusions from the expert meeting can be somewhat confusing.
Simply put, I personally recommend that you consider receiving 1 dose of PCV13, followed by PPV23 one year later, and then a second dose of PPV23 after more than five years.
However, this is not an absolute standard answer.
If you have further questions, I suggest discussing them with your family physician before making a decision.

Reply Date: 2022/01/24

More Info

The 13-Valent Pneumococcal Vaccine (PCV13) is an important immunization for adults, particularly for those who are at increased risk for pneumococcal diseases, such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. This vaccine is designed to protect against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause serious infections.
For your mother, who is 58 years old, the decision to receive the PCV13 vaccine should be based on her overall health status, medical history, and risk factors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the PCV13 vaccine for adults aged 65 and older, as well as for younger adults with certain health conditions, such as chronic lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.

One of the key points to understand about the PCV13 vaccine is that it is generally administered as a single dose. The vaccine is effective in generating an immune response, but over time, the levels of protective antibodies may decline. This is why your doctor mentioned that the vaccine is typically given only once in a lifetime. However, for adults who are at higher risk, especially those with certain underlying health conditions, a booster dose of the 23-Valent Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV23) may be recommended after a certain period, usually at least one year after receiving the PCV13 vaccine.

It is important to note that while the PCV13 vaccine can significantly reduce the risk of pneumococcal disease, it does not provide complete immunity. Therefore, it is still crucial for individuals to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage chronic conditions, and stay updated on other vaccinations, such as the influenza vaccine, which can also help prevent respiratory infections.

In terms of timing for the vaccination, it is advisable for your mother to discuss her vaccination history and any potential health concerns with her healthcare provider. They can provide personalized recommendations based on her specific health profile. If she has not received the PCV13 vaccine before and is eligible, it would be beneficial for her to get vaccinated sooner rather than later, especially considering the ongoing risks associated with pneumococcal infections.

In summary, the 13-Valent Pneumococcal Vaccine is a valuable tool in preventing serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. While it is typically administered as a single dose, individuals at higher risk may benefit from additional vaccinations. Consulting with a healthcare provider will ensure that your mother receives the appropriate guidance and care regarding her vaccination needs.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pediatric Pneumococcal Vaccines: A Guide for Parents

The 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine that your child received in Taiwan is known as "PCV13" or "Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, 13-valent." In some contexts, it may also be referred to as "Prevnar 13," which is a common brand name for this va...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
In Taiwan, the Ministry of Health and Welfare has approved three products from two manufacturers for the domestic market: the seven-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV7) and the thirteen-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Prevenar 13) produced by Pfizer, and the ten-va...

Understanding the Differences Between 7-Valent and 13-Valent Pneumococcal Vaccines for Kids

Hello Dr. Hsiao, I apologize for bothering you again. My question is as follows: On April 22, 2011, I took my child to the well-child clinic (at one year old) and received the varicella, measles, and the fourth dose of the 7-valent pneumococcal vaccine. The nurse informed me that...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
There should be an interval of at least one month after the last dose of the 7-valent pneumococcal vaccine. In the United States, it is recommended that there be an interval of at least eight weeks between PCV7 and PCV13.

Should an 18-Month-Old with UTI History Get Pneumococcal Vaccine?

Hello, Doctor! My daughter is currently 18 months old and has been hospitalized due to infections a total of four times since birth (aside from jaundice, the other three instances were due to infections, including urinary tract reflux, moderate hydronephrosis; dehydration, herpet...

Dr. Zhang Guozhen reply Pediatrics
The response from Dr. Chang Kuo-Chen of the Pediatric Department at Zhudong Hospital, Department of Health, is as follows: There is no correlation between the history of urinary reflux and the administration of the pneumococcal vaccine. Currently, there are two types of pneumococ...

Essential Childhood Vaccinations for Adults Around 35 Years Old

Adults around the age of 35 who received vaccinations during elementary school typically received the following immunizations: 1. Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) 2. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) 3. Polio (IPV) 4. Hepatitis B 5. Varicella (Chickenpox) These vaccin...

Dr. Liang Hongjian reply Pediatrics
Hello: According to what you said, it may involve BCG vaccine, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), vaccinia (cowpox), and Japanese encephalitis. Dr. Liang Hong-Jian from the Pediatrics Department of Miaoli Hospital.