Medical Forum
Changes to pneumococcal vaccination schedule
The pneumococcal vaccination schedule has been simplified for some groups as part of the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
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Medical Forum
Australians aged 65 years and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 25 years and over, and eligible adults with certain medical conditions now have access to a simplified pneumococcal vaccination schedule under the NIP.
The 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (21vPCV), labelled Capvaxive, was added to the program as of July 1.
The new vaccine replaces both Prevenar 13 and Pneumovax 23 for adults, streamlining the pneumococcal vaccination schedule while providing protection against a broader range of pneumococcal disease strains.
Under the updated program, Capvaxive will be available free of charge through the NIP for adults aged 65 years and over, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 25 years and over and adults aged 18 years and over with specified medical conditions that increase their risk of severe pneumococcal disease.
The changes are designed to simplify vaccination recommendations, lower the age at which some Australians become eligible for funded pneumococcal vaccination, and improve protection against pneumococcal disease.
Pneumococcal disease can cause serious illnesses including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, particularly among older adults and people with underlying medical conditions.
Healthcare professionals, including GPs, are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new recommendations and discuss pneumococcal vaccination with eligible patients.
