CDC Updates Pneumococcal Vaccine Recommendations (SNF/AL)

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) recently updated guidance and recommendations for pneumococcal vaccinations. Adults aged 65 years or older are recommended to receive two doses of pneumococcal vaccine. Guidance varies depending on the pneumococcal vaccination history of the individual. Key points from the greater volume of guidance include:

• Previously unvaccinated individuals should receive ONE dose of 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) also known as Prevnar 20, or 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV15) vaccine, also known as Vaxneuvance. If PCV15 is used, the individual should also receive a dose of 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) also known as Pneumovax 23, at least one year later. 
• Individuals who have received PPSV23 as the first vaccine received, should be followed by one dose of either the PCV20 or PCV15 at least one year later. CDC is still recommending the PPSV23 in conjunction with the 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) also known as Prevnar 13, or PCV15.
• Be aware that PCV13 will be phased out as supply is exhausted.