Introduction of Vaxneuvance® (Pneu-C15) and Prevnar 20™ (Pneu-C20) in the prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease
On June 24, Prevnar 20™ (Pneu-C20) will be offered to children and adults at increased risk of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD), through AHS Public Health Centres and in First Nations communities. Pneu-C20 will replace both Pneumococcal Conjugate 13 Vaccine (Prevnar®13/Pneu-C13) and Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (Pneumovax®23/Pneumo-P) for individuals at increased risk of IPD.
Non-high-risk children under 18 years of age will be offered Vaxneuvance® (Pneu-C15) at AHS Public Health Centres as part of the routine immunization program. Eligible children and adults at increased risk of IPD and individuals 65 years and older will be offered Pneu-C20. This vaccine protects against more serotypes of the bacteria that causes IPD than Pneu-C13 and provides a better immune response and longer protection compared to Pneumo-P. The Prevnar 20™ vaccine will be made available in pharmacies on July 1, 2024, for high-risk Albertans 18 years of age and older. The Pneumovax®23 program ends June 30, 2024, and the product will no longer be available. For medical clinics that offer vaccines, an email with more information regarding vaccine disposal will be sent to the medical clinic AVI contacts. It is anticipated that a vaccine distributor will be secured for physician vaccine distribution in the fall. In the meantime, please refer your eligible patients to either pharmacy or AHS.
| 