Understanding Pneumococcal Vaccinations: What Seniors Need to Know
Expert Insights from the Oregon Health Authority
Inquiries concerning vaccination and health protocols are frequently addressed by professionals at the Oregon Health Authority, partnering state agencies, and community health organizations. Here’s a recent question related to pneumonia vaccinations.
The Question on Prevnar Vaccinations
Q: As a 70-year-old who has already received both the pneumonia vaccine and the Prevnar 13 vaccination, I’ve heard about the new Prevnar 20. However, I haven’t found clear guidance on whether I should get this vaccine. What is your advice? – Alison, Eagle Point
Clarifying Pneumonia Vaccination Options
A: Alison, it seems you’re referring to the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23), which offers protection against 23 strains of pneumococcus bacteria. While this form of vaccination shields against various strains, it’s worth noting that its effectiveness isn’t as robust as that provided by pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), commonly recognized by names like Prevnar.
If you have previously received both PPSV23 and Prevnar 13 (PCV13), you might be suitable for either PCV20 or PCV21 vaccinations. This is an important discussion for you to have with your healthcare provider because determining whether further vaccination is necessary involves what is known as “shared clinical decision-making.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) frames PCV20 and PCV21 as options rather than obligatory recommendations:
- Adults aged 65 years or older have a choice regarding PCV20 or PCV21 after receiving:
– PCV13 (but none of these: PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21) at any age
– PPSV23 administered at or beyond age 65.
Further details regarding recommendations for pneumococcal vaccinations can be found in CDC resources designed to guide individuals through their options.
Seeking Further Information on Health Topics
Should you have additional questions about health guidelines from the Oregon Health Authority, feel free to submit your inquiries. While they may not respond individually to every question due to volume constraints, they aim to tackle queries that resonate with wider public interest. Please note that personalized medical advice specific to individual conditions cannot be guaranteed by OHA representatives.
By staying informed about these newer vaccines and consulting with your physician regarding personal immunization history could significantly contribute towards maintaining better health outcomes in older adults during this evolving landscape of vaccination options.
