The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine ( PCV13 ) and the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) protect against pneumococcal infections, which are caused by bacteria. There are two types of pneumococcal vaccines currently in use, which include: Conjugated vaccines (PCV): These use a carrier protein to attach to the bacterial capsular polysaccharides and enable the body to produce both B-cell and T-cell immune responses. This results in longer-lasting immunity. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Pneumococcal pneumonia, caused by Streptococcus Pneumoniae, is a leading cause of pneumonia-related morbidity and mortality in children. The number of doses and the type of vaccines they get will depend on their age, their medical condition, and the type of vaccines they got in the past. Why Are the PCV and PPSV Vaccines Recommended? Children younger than 2 years old, adults over 65, and people with some medical conditions are at high risk for serious pneumococcal infections.
