Two Main Types
There are two main types of pneumonia vaccines; Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) and Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23). They both offer protection against various types of bacteria streptococcus pneumoniae [1], a common type of pneumonia.
The type your doctor prescribes usually depends on the age, the presence of an underlying disease, and if they smoke. The two types of pneumonia vaccines include:
- Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13): According to studies, this type of vaccine is recommended for young children, people with an underlying condition, and some people older than 65 years.
- Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23): Doctors recommend this vaccine for people older than 65 years of age, people who smoke, and people with certain underlying conditions.
According to the Center for Disease and Control, PCV13 protects children and others against 13 strains of bacterial pneumonia. PPSV23 prevents pneumonia in older adults and others who need 23 strains of bacterial pneumonia. It is important to note that a pneumonia shot will not reduce pneumonia, but it will help prevent invasive pneumococcal diseases, such as bacteremia, empyema [2], endocarditis [3], and meningitis [4]. An example of noninvasive pneumococcal disease is sinusitis.