Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (Systemic)

Brand Names : Prevnar

Category

• Immunizing agent, active

Description

Pneumococcal((NEU-mo-KOK-al)) conjugate vaccine is an active immunizing agent used to prevent infection by pneumococcal bacteria. It works by causing your body to produce its own protection (antibodies) against the disease.

Pneumococcal infection can cause serious problems, such as pneumonia, which affects the lungs; meningitis, which affects the brain; and bacteremia, which is a severe infection in the blood. Pneumococcal infection is also an important cause of ear infections in children.

Unless otherwise contraindicated, immunization against pneumococcal disease is recommended for infants and young children.

Immunization requires 1 to 4 doses of the vaccine, depending on the age at the first dose. This vaccine can be given at the same time as other routine vaccinations.

This vaccine is to be administered only by or under the supervision of your doctor or other health care professional. It is available in the following dosage form:

Parenteral
• Injection (U.S.)

Brand Names

Some commonly used brand names are:

In the U.S. -

• Prevnar