Pneumovax Vaccine (Prevnar 13 & Pneumovax 23)

Most adults 65 years of age and older are probably aware of the recommendation to get their pneumonia shot but there are two different types of pneumococcal pneumonia immunizations (Prevnar 13 and Pneumovax) and both are available at the Trumbull Health Department.

Causes & Complications

Pneumococcal disease is caused by bacteria that can spread from person to person through close contact. It can cause ear infections and can also lead to more serious infections of the:

• Blood (bacteremia)
• Covering of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis)
• Lungs (pneumonia)

Meningitis can cause deafness and brain damage and it can be fatal.

Prevnar 13

Prevnar 13, as the number implies, protects against 13 strains of pneumococcal disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults 65 years of age or older receive a single dose of Prevnar 13 in addition to the Pneumovax.

Prevnar 13 should be given first and the Pneumovax a year later. If a person has already had a dose of Pneumovax, the Prevnar 13 should not be given sooner than one year.

Pneumovax Vaccine

Pneumovax vaccine, also known as PPSV23, is recommended for all adults 65 years or older. This vaccine protects against 23 different strains of pneumococcal pneumonia. A second dose of Pneumovax is given if the first dose was administered before the age of 65. The two shots must be separated by five years.

For an appointment, or for more information about any of the vaccines, call 203-452-1030. The Pneumonia vaccines are covered by Medicare Part B. Please bring your insurance cards and a valid driver license/State ID with you.

Read Pneumonia Vaccines FAQs: What Everyone Should Know from the CDC.