Pneumovax 23

Pneumovax 23 is a vaccine used to prevent infection caused by certain types of pneumococcus bacteria. It is manufactured by Merck & Co., an American multinational pharmaceutical company.

Composition

Pneumovax 23 is a polysaccharide vaccine, which means it is composed of long chains of sugar molecules that resemble the surface of certain types of pneumococcus bacteria. It contains purified capsular polysaccharides from 23 of the most prevalent or invasive pneumococcal types of Streptococcus pneumoniae, hence the name Pneumovax 23.

Usage

Pneumovax 23 is used to prevent pneumococcal disease in people aged 2 years and older, especially those who are at higher risk due to other health conditions. It is particularly recommended for people over the age of 65, as they are at a higher risk of serious pneumococcal infections.

Efficacy

The efficacy of Pneumovax 23 is based on its ability to induce the production of specific antibodies against the pneumococcal types included in the vaccine. These antibodies help the immune system to fight off the bacteria if the person is exposed to them.

Side Effects

Like all vaccines, Pneumovax 23 can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects include pain and swelling at the injection site, fever, and muscle aches. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions.

See Also

• Vaccination
• Pneumococcal infection
• Streptococcus pneumoniae
• Merck & Co.