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Pneumococcal Vaccines

Pneumococcal vaccines are given to protect against infection from several types of pneumococcal bacteria. Infection with pneumococcal bacteria can cause invasive pneumococcal disease.
 
Pneumococcal-containing vaccines may be provided for free as part of routine immunizations in British Columbia.

For more information about the vaccines, who should get them, the benefits and possible reactions, click on the links below to go to the specific HealthLink BC files.

Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV 13)

Prevnar® 13 is now available and protects against 13 strains of pneumococcal disease. 

Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine, Pneumovax® 23

  • An additional vaccine which protects against more types of pneumococcal bacteria
  • Not part of the routine immunization schedule for children
  • Provided for free for people at high risk
  • Given to people 2 years of age or older who have certain medical conditions

For more information about the pneumococcal vaccines and who should get them, see the following:

Web Resources

Last Updated: April 20, 2012