Vaxneuvance®
This product is manufactured by Merck Canada using the ingredient pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Pneu-C-15).
This product is taken via intramuscular injection.
Why is it prescribed?
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Pneu-C-15) is indicated for active immunization of infants, children and adults against invasive diseases (e.g. meningitis), pneumonia and blood infection caused by the 15 strains of pneumococci contained in the vaccine.
Vaxneuvance® will only protect against the strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae in the vaccine, therefore, it will not protect 100% of people that receive it from getting pneumonia.
In adults, Vaxneuvance® can be given at the same time as the flu (inactivated influenza) vaccine
In children, Vaxneuvance® can be given at the same time as other routine childhood vaccines.
Alternatives
See other products used in the treatment of •pneumonia •
Dosage is based on age - your healthcare provider will determine how much you should get and how many doses.
The vaccine is given:
- Adults - in the deltoid (arma)
- Children - in the deltoid or in the thigh
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Pneu-C-15) is made up of 15 strains of pneumococcal (pneumonia) bacteria combined with carrier proteins. When injected, the vaccine in the body familiarizes the immune system to the pneumococcal bacteria. If the person is exposed to the bacteria again, the immune system can mount a quick, specific attack against the bacteria and ultimately resist infection.
Most common:
- Pain, swelling or redness where you got the shot
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
These are signs of an allergic reaction which require immediate medical care:
- Wheezing or trouble breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips or tongue
- Hives
- Rash
People with a weakened immune system from a medical condition or due to medications, may have a reduced response to this vaccine. This vaccine may not protect 100% of individuals receiving the vaccine.
Medications given by intramuscular injection should be given with caution to people with bleeding disorders.
Administration of pneumococcal vaccine should be postponed if suffering from severe acute illness. Immunization should not be delayed because of minor acute illness, with or without fever.
Use is not recommended in the following situations:
- prior severe allergic reaction to pneumococcal vaccine
- allergy to any component of the vaccine
Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding: Due to limited data, Pneu-C-13 and Pneu-P-23 vaccines are preferred.