Adults aged ≥70 years are recommended to receive pneumococcal conjugate vaccine

A single dose of a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (13vPCV, 15vPCV or 20vPCV) is recommended for all adults at ≥70 years of age who have never received a dose of PCV. There is no preference for either 13vPCV, 15vPCV or 20vPCV. It should be noted that 15vPCV and 20vPCV are anticipated to provide benefit against additional serotypes compared to 13vPCV.

Adults who have previously received 23vPPV (a pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) and have not already received a pneumococcal conjugate vaccine are recommended to receive a single dose of 13vPCV, 15vPCV or 20vPCV at least 12 months after their last 23vPPV dose. See Infographic. Pneumococcal vaccination for people who have previously received a pneumococcal vaccine.

13vPCV (Prevenar 13) is funded through the NIP for all adults aged ≥70 years. For details see the National Immunisation Program Schedule.