The Types of Pneumococcal Vaccines Available in the Philippines
Currently, there are three types of pneumococcal vaccine in the Philippines. Three of these are pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, PCV7, PCV10 and PCV13. Another type is the pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine, PPSV23. The differences between each vaccine is outlined below.
Pneumococcal 7-Valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV7)2, 9
This was the first pneumococcal conjugate vaccine licensed for use. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines combine sugar components from the capsule of Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria and the diphtheria CRM197 protein.
The PCV7 vaccine provides protection against these serotypes (or strains) of S. pneumoniae: 4, 6B, 9V, 14, 18C, 19F, and 23F. These serotypes commonly cause pneumococcal infections such as pneumonia and acute otitis media.
PCV7 is used only for pediatric patients. As of today, this vaccine has been enhanced to produce the PCV13 vaccine and provide expanded coverage against more serotypes.
Pneumococcal 10-Valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV10)3
The PCV10 vaccine protects against 10 serotypes of S. pneumoniae that commonly cause infections such as pneumonia and otitis media. The serotypes that are covered include: 1, 4, 5, 6B, 7F, 9V, 14, 18C, 19F, and 23F.
PCV10 was one of the vaccines used by the Department of Health (DOH) as part of the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) for children4.
Pneumococcal 13-Valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13)5
The PCV13 vaccine offers protection against the same serotypes as PCV10 plus added coverage against S. pneumoniae serotypes 3, 6A, and 19A.
Currently, this vaccine is the most recommended to prevent pneumococcal infections in children, starting as early as 6 weeks of age4. It is also the vaccine given to adults with chronic diseases, compromised immunity, or are otherwise at-risk for pneumococcal infection.
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