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Clearly explained.

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20)

Prevenar 20 protects against 20 pneumococcal serotypes and has replaced PPV23 in the routine adult and clinical-risk programme as remaining PPV23 stock is exhausted.

What is it?

Streptococcus pneumoniae can cause pneumonia, meningitis and septicaemia, with risk increased by age and certain health conditions.

Where it may be relevant

  • Adults aged 65 years and over under the current programme
  • People aged 2 years and over in specified clinical-risk groups
  • People with severe immunosuppression or impaired splenic function after clinical assessment

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Risk-based dose

Eligible adults and clinical-risk groups

Dose 1Day 0
ImmunityLong-term protection; risk-dependent

Who may be eligible

  • People meeting current age- or risk-based UKHSA criteria
  • People for whom PCV20 is appropriate after review of previous pneumococcal vaccination

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the PCV20 pneumococcal vaccine protect against?

It protects against 20 pneumococcal serotypes that can cause pneumonia and invasive disease.

Who should consider the PCV20 pneumococcal vaccine?

It is used in the current adult and clinical-risk programme as PPV23 stock is exhausted.

How many doses of the PCV20 pneumococcal vaccine are needed?

Many eligible people receive one dose; the schedule depends on age, clinical risk and previous pneumococcal vaccination.

Can I have the PCV20 pneumococcal vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the PCV20 pneumococcal vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.