Can My 1-Year-Old Switch to 13-Valent Pneumonia Vaccine?

13-valent pneumococcal vaccine

Hello doctor, my sister is currently one year old.
Before she turned one, due to spitting up, the doctor recommended the 10-valent vaccine.
She has completed 4 doses and only has one dose left.
Can I give her the 13-valent vaccine for the last dose, or does she need to complete the 10-valent series first? Additionally, there are small lumps on both sides of her head and neck that the pediatrician said are lymph nodes, but they haven't gone away in six months, and I'm very worried.
What kind of tests should be done?

Zi Qing, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/01/09

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

1.
Lymphoid tissue will gradually enlarge steadily until puberty, after which it will naturally decrease and disappear.
The absence of inflammation (redness, swelling, heat, pain) and malignancy (hardening, irregular borders, fixation, continuous enlargement) is considered normal.

2.
According to the recommendations of the Vaccination Advisory Committee of the Centers for Disease Control, your baby can receive the last dose of the 13-valent vaccine or an additional dose of the 13-valent vaccine after completing the 10-valent vaccine series.

Reply Date: 2014/01/09

More Info

When it comes to vaccinations for your one-year-old daughter, particularly regarding the switch from the 10-valent pneumococcal vaccine (PCV10) to the 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13), there are several important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, it is important to understand the differences between the two vaccines. The 10-valent vaccine covers 10 strains of the pneumococcus bacteria, while the 13-valent vaccine covers 13 strains, including those that are more commonly associated with severe disease in children. The additional strains in PCV13 provide broader protection against pneumococcal diseases, which can include pneumonia, meningitis, and otitis media (ear infections).

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, if a child has started their vaccination series with PCV10, it is generally acceptable to complete the series with PCV13. This means that if your daughter has received three doses of PCV10, she can receive a dose of PCV13 as her final dose. This switch is supported by studies showing that the immune response to PCV13 is adequate even if the child has previously received PCV10.

However, it is essential to consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider before making this switch. They will consider your daughter's specific health history, including her current condition and any potential allergies or reactions to vaccines. They can also provide guidance on the timing of the vaccine and any additional doses that may be necessary.

Regarding your concern about the small lumps on her neck, which your pediatrician has identified as lymph nodes, it is understandable to feel worried, especially if they have not resolved after six months. Swollen lymph nodes can be a normal response to infections, but persistent swelling should be evaluated further. It is advisable to discuss this with your pediatrician, who may recommend further examination or tests, such as blood tests or imaging studies, to ensure that there is no underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

In summary, switching from the 10-valent to the 13-valent pneumococcal vaccine is generally acceptable, but it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Additionally, keep monitoring the lymph nodes and communicate any changes or concerns to your pediatrician. They are best equipped to provide the necessary evaluations and ensure your daughter remains healthy and protected against preventable diseases.

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