Pneumovax 23 Vaccine

Introduction

Pneumovax 23 Vaccine is used for prevention of diseases caused by pneumococcal bacteria such as pneumonia, meningitis, ear infections, and blood infections. Pneumovax 23 Vaccine is usually given as an injection into the muscle of the upper arm by a doctor or a nurse. It should not be self-administered. Only one dose is needed for most people. A booster dose can be given 5 years after the first dose. Some common side effects of this vaccine include injection site reactions (such as pain, swelling, redness), headache, weakness, tiredness, and muscle pain. If these side effects persist or get worse, let the doctor know. The doctor may help with ways to reduce or prevent these symptoms. To ensure safety, before receiving the vaccine, it is important to let the doctor know if you have any problems with your heart, liver, and kidneys. You should also tell the doctor about all the medicines you are taking. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should consult and seek advice from their doctor before receiving the vaccine.

Uses of Pneumovax 23 Injection

• Prevention of pneumonia, meningitis, blood infection & ear infection

Benefits of Pneumovax 23 Injection

In Prevention of pneumonia, meningitis, blood infection & ear infection

Pneumovax 23 Vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease. Pneumococcal disease refers to any illness caused by pneumococcal bacteria such as ear infections, sinus infections, meningitis (infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord), bacteremia (bloodstream infection), or pneumonia (lungs infection). Anyone can get pneumococcal disease, children above 2 years of age, people with certain medical conditions, adults 65 years or older, and cigarette smokers are at the highest risk and can receive this vaccine. Most pneumococcal infections are mild. However, some can be serious. Keeping up to date with recommended vaccines is the best defense against pneumococcal disease.

Side effects of Pneumovax 23 Injection

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Pneumovax 23

• Injection site redness
• Headache
• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Muscle pain

How to use Pneumovax 23 Injection

Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.

How Pneumovax 23 Injection works

Pneumovax 23 Vaccine is a vaccine which helps develop immunity by initiating a mild infection. This type of infection does not cause illness but stimulates the body's immune system to produce antibodies (proteins) to protect against any future infections.