PNEUMOCOCCAL POLYSACCHARIDE CONJUGATE (PCV) VACCINE

Vaccine used in routine immunisation of children to prevent pneumonia and meningitis caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae

Dosage Forms

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Injection

0.5 ml/dose in 2-dose vial

Uses

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  • Immunisation against Streptococcus pneumoniae for prevention of pneumonia and meningitis

Dose and Duration

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Immunisation Schedule

Child 1–5 years: 0.5 ml IM in shoulder muscle (upper outer arm) as a single dose

Child <1 year: 0.5 ml IM in outer upper thigh

  • First dose: At 6 weeks or 2 months
  • Second dose: At 10 weeks or 4 months
  • Third dose: At 14 weeks or 6 months

A booster dose may be given at 12 months

Contraindications

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  • Severe febrile illness

Side Effects

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  • Pain, redness, swelling at injection site

Patient Instructions

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  • If fever develops, give a single dose of paracetamol (60 mg) to the child. Wiping the child with a cool sponge or cloth (with water at room temperature) is also good for reducing fever
  • Do not apply anything at the injection site

Pregnancy

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  • Not applicable

Breast-feeding

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  • Not applicable

Storage

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  • Store between 2–8°C. Do not freeze

⚠️ Caution

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  • Vaccine can be given to HIV-infected patients