Pneumococcal Disease

Invasive Bacterial Disease

On this page:
Who needs pneumococcal vaccine and when?
More pneumococcal vaccine information
Vaccine schedules and forms

Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13), also called Prevnar, protects against the 13 most common types of pneumonia.

Children should get 4 doses of Prevnar, at 2, 4, 6 and 12-15 months of age.
It is recommended for all children 23 months of age and younger.
All children under the age of 2, who attend child care in Minnesota, must get the pneumococcal vaccine, or file appropriate exemptions.
The vaccine is particularly recommended for high risk children, those with sickle cell disease, no or poorly functioning spleen; human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection or other illnesses that weaken the immune system; have a cerebrospinal fluid leak or cochlear implants.

Children 2 to 5 years old who are at high risk for pneumococcal meningitis, pneumonia, or blood infection should get the Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPSV).

Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV13): What You Need to Know
CDC's vaccine information statement (VIS) in English and other languages. Attention: Non-MDH link
PCV13 Vaccine (Pneumococcal Conjugate)
Questions and answers for parents, health care professionals, and people considering immunization from the CDC. Attention: Non-MDH link

Pneumococcal (PCV13) Information
Immunization Action Coalition page including journal articles, recommendations, case histories, photos, and vaccine shortage information. Attention: Non-MDH link

Who Needs Immunizations and When?
Vaccination schedules for children and adults.
Keeping Track of Immunizations
Paper and electronic tools for keeping track of a child's immunization history for child care and school.