What is the Difference Between PCV13 and PPSV23?

PCV13 (pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) and PPSV23 (pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine) are two types of vaccines that protect against pneumococcal diseases, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia. The main differences between these two vaccines are:

• Protection: PCV13 protects against 13 types of pneumococcal bacteria, while PPSV23 protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria.
• Vaccine Design: PCV13 contains capsular polysaccharide antigens and induces a T-cell independent antibody response, while PPSV23 contains capsular polysaccharide antigens and induces a T-cell dependent immune response.
• Effectiveness: Studies show that PCV13 is 75% effective in preventing invasive disease (like bloodstream infections and meningitis) and 45% effective at preventing non-invasive pneumonia caused by the 13 strains it covers. PPSV23, on the other hand, protects between 6 to 7 in 10 adults with healthy immune systems.
• Recommendations: PCV13 is recommended for all adults 65 years or older, adults 19 years or older with certain medical conditions, and adults 19 years or older who are taking medications that lower the body’s resistance to infection. PPSV23 is recommended for all adults 65 years or older and some individuals with immunocompromising conditions, functional or anatomic asplenia, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, or cochlear implants.
• Administration: Adults should receive one dose of PCV13 before starting or continuing doses of PPSV23. The recommended interval between PCV13 and PPSV23 for immunocompetent adults aged ≥65 years is 6–12 months.

Comparative Table: PCV13 vs PPSV23

PCV13 and PPSV23 are two types of pneumococcal vaccines that protect against different serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae. Here is a table comparing the key differences between the two vaccines:

Both vaccines aim to induce an immune response to protect against pneumococcal infections, but they differ in the number of serotypes covered and the type of immune response they elicit. PCV13 produces a T-cell dependent immune response, which may offer greater potential for immune memory, while PPSV23 elicits a T-cell independent antibody response. The CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends both vaccines for adults aged 65 years and older, with specific intervals between PCV13 and PPSV23 vaccinations for immunocompetent individuals.