Pneumococcal Vaccine Reminder
Posted on October 18, 2016
Please read the following update related to various Health New England programs and changes that may have an impact on your patients and/or your practice.
Pneumococcal vaccine recommendations for aging adults:
It’s recommended that adults ages 65 and older get both the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) and pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13).
Timing of the vaccines:
- Patients in need of both vaccines should get the PCV13 vaccine first, followed by PPSV23 6 to 12 months later.
- Patients already vaccinated with PPSV23 should receive the PCV13 vaccine a year or more later.
- Pneumococcal vaccines can be given at any time of the year.
For adults who are 65 and older and are otherwise healthy, the CDC currently recommends a one-time vaccination with the pneumonia shot and no booster shots. However, many doctors do give a second shot 5 to 10 years after the first shot.
If you have any questions about the information in this notice, please contact Health New England Provider Relations at (800) 842-4464, extension 5000. A representative is available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
