The pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine schedule and frequency depend on age and health status: For infants and young children:
- A 4-dose series of pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13, PCV15, or PCV20) is given at:
- 2 months
- 4 months
- 6 months
- 12 to 15 months
- Multiple doses are needed because protection lasts only several months as the infant's immune system develops
For adults:
- Adults 65 years and older typically need 1 to 2 doses of pneumococcal vaccine, which usually provide long-lasting or lifelong protection
- Adults 50 years and older are recommended to receive PCV15, PCV20, or PCV21. If PCV15 is given, a dose of PPSV23 is recommended at least 1 year later. If PCV20 or PCV21 is given, no additional PPSV23 dose is needed
- Adults between 19 and 64 with certain medical conditions or risk factors (e.g., immunocompromising conditions, chronic diseases, smoking) may need 1 to 3 doses depending on their health
- The minimum interval between doses varies but is generally at least 8 weeks to 1 year depending on vaccine type and patient condition
Summary:
- Infants: 4 doses in the first 15 months.
- Adults 65+: Usually 1 to 2 doses, often lifelong protection.
- Adults 50+ or with risk factors: Vaccination depends on vaccine type and health status, with intervals of 8 weeks to 1 year between doses if multiple are needed.
Most adults do not require frequent revaccination once the series is complete, but specific timing is guided by age, vaccine type, and risk factors
