Pneumococcal

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is a bacterium that can cause pneumonia, meningitis, bloodstream infection, and severe ear infections in vulnerable people.

Two types of vaccine are used: conjugate vaccines (PCV13, PCV15, PCV20) give stronger, longer-lasting immunity; polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) covers more serotypes with weaker immunity, often given as a follow-up.

The HK Government programme moved to PCV15 in August 2024. The eligible elderly schedule is: one dose of PCV15 followed by one dose of PPSV23 one year later. PCV20 is HK-approved but currently only available privately.

Children (HK Childhood Immunisation Programme): PCV15 at 2, 4, 6 months (primary series) and 12 months (booster).

Elderly adults: adults aged 65+ who are high-risk are eligible for free or subsidised PCV15 followed by PPSV23 under the Government Vaccination Programme.

High-risk adults under 65 with chronic conditions may be recommended vaccination on individual medical advice.

US CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination routinely for all adults 65+ and for adults 19-64 with risk conditions. Principle aligns with HK; specific products differ.

Children (HKCIP): PCV15 at 2, 4, 6 months, plus booster at 12 months.

Elderly under the Government programme: PCV15 followed by PPSV23 ≥1 year later.

High-risk adults outside the elderly programme: schedule depends on prior vaccination history and product used.

For both conjugate vaccines and PPSV23: sore arm and swelling, mild fever, tiredness, headache, muscle aches. Lasts 1-2 days. Serious reactions are rare.

• Myth: Pneumonia is just bad flu. I don't need a separate vaccine.

  Reality: Flu is a virus; pneumococcal pneumonia is bacterial. The vaccines target different things, and both are recommended for high-risk older adults. They can be given on the same day.

• Myth: More serotypes is always better, so PCV20 is automatically superior.

  Reality: PCV20 does cover more serotypes than PCV15, but the right choice depends on your specific risk profile, prior vaccinations, and what is covered under the public programme. Speak with your GP.

• Children: Maternal and Child Health Centres deliver PCV15 under the Childhood Immunisation Programme
• Eligible elderly: see your GP under the Government Vaccination Programme
• High-risk adults outside the elderly programme: see your GP — PCV15, PCV20, or PPSV23 may be appropriate

• HK CHP — Pneumococcal Vaccination Programme · HK Centre for Health Protection (HK)
• HK Scientific Committee on Vaccine Preventable Diseases · HK Scientific Committee on VPD (HK)