The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, also known as Prevenar 13, is a vaccine that helps protect against 13 different types of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria, responsible for diseases such as pneumonia, meningitis or otitis media, for example.
The first dose of the vaccine should be done on the baby from 2 months of age to ensure the best protection. In the adult, the vaccine only needs to be applied once.
This vaccine is produced by Pfizer laboratories and recommended by Anvisa, however, it is not included in the vaccination schedule and should be purchased and administered at vaccination clinics. See which vaccines are part of the vaccination schedule.
Price of Prevenar 13
The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine is not yet included in the vaccination schedule of the Ministry of Health and therefore must be purchased at vaccination clinics with an average price of 200 reais per dose.
However, a vaccine is included in the calendar that helps protect against only 10 different types of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria.
What is it for
Prevenar 13 helps protect against diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria and is therefore a way to reduce the chances of developing pneumonia, meningitis, acute otitis media and invasive disease.
This vaccine is very important before 2 years of age, because it is during this period that there is a greater risk of infection by the bacteria. However, people with impaired immune system, asthma or over 50 years are also at a higher risk and should be vaccinated.
How it should be used
The mode of administration of the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine varies according to the age at which the first dose is made and it is recommended:
- 1st dose at 2 months : 4 doses should be given at 2.4, 6 and 15 months;
- 1st dose between 7 and 11 months : 3 doses should be made, each one to be administered 2 months after the previous one;
- 1st dose between 12 and 23 months : 2 doses are given and administered 2 months apart;
- 1st dose after 2 years : it is only necessary to make a single dose.
In adults, the single dose of the vaccine can be done at any age, however, it is most important after age 50 or in people with asthma, high blood pressure, COPD or with diseases that affect the immune system.
Possible secondary reactions
Like most vaccines, Prevenar 13 can cause side effects during the first 72 hours like fever, irritation, decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, as well as redness and pain at the injection site.
Who should not take
Prevenar 13 should not be administered to people who are hypersensitive to any of its components. In addition, it should be avoided in cases of fever.
