There is a new name for the most advanced of the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccines: the previous version, Apexxnar, has now been re-branded as Prevenar 20. Although this may result in some initial confusion for medical stall and patients alike, the composition and effectiveness of the vaccine are unchanged. Under its new name, however, it is now licensed for adults and children alike – in fact for everyone over 6 weeks of age.
If you have been previously vaccinated with Apexxnar, there is no reason to be revaccinated. However, if you have been vaccinated with a previous version of Prevenar (such as Prevenar 13), it makes good sense to update now to Prevenar 20, which covers more strains.
Prevenar 20 provides protection against the 20 most important strains (called serotypes) of pneumococcal bacteria, offering a more comprehensive defence against pneumonia.
Covid vaccine updated
Another respiratory vaccine has also had an important update: privately available Covid vaccines will now cover the currently predominant variant, KP.2. Covid cases rose by ten per cent in February, and vaccination is an important protective measure, reducing the likelihood and severity of infection. (It seems that the NHS spring Covid booster campaign is based on the previous JN.1 vaccine.)
Prevenar 20 and the updated Covid vaccine, together with vaccination against RSV, flu and whooping cough, make up the 5 vaccines now available to prevent respiratory infection.
If you would like to find out more about these vaccines, consider making an appointment with one of our knowledgeable nurses or doctors.
About Pneumonia:
Pneumonia is a lung infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Cough: A persistent cough that produces mucus or phlegm is a common symptom of pneumonia. The cough may be dry or productive, and the mucus or phlegm may be green, yellow, or rust-coloured.
- Fever: Pneumonia often causes a high fever, which may be accompanied by chills and sweats.
- Shortness of breath: Pneumonia can cause difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity. The shortness of breath may be accompanied by chest pain or tightness.
- Fatigue: Pneumonia can cause extreme tiredness and weakness, making it difficult to carry out normal daily activities.
- Muscle aches: Pneumonia can cause muscle aches and joint pain, which may be mistaken for the flu.
- Chest pain: Pneumonia can cause chest pain, especially when breathing deeply or coughing.
- Nausea and vomiting: Some people with pneumonia may experience nausea and vomiting, especially if the infection is caused by a type of bacteria known as Legionella.
- Confusion or disorientation: Pneumonia can cause confusion or disorientation, especially in older adults and people with underlying health conditions.
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, as pneumonia can be a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
More information on pneumonia.
Who is considered “high-risk”?
Individuals considered to be at high risk for hospitalisation due to pneumonia include the elderly, young children, people with weakened immune systems (including people who have had their spleen removed), and individuals with underlying health conditions such as chronic heart or lung diseases, diabetes, and liver or kidney problems.
At the Fleet St. Clinic, we also regard anyone who has had a previous significant episode of pneumonia as likely to benefit from being vaccinated.
When is the best time for a pneumonia vaccine?
The best time to vaccinate against pneumonia depends on various factors such as the type of vaccine, the individual’s age, and underlying health conditions.
Pneumonia vaccine is not necessarily a winter vaccine, and can be given at any time of year.
How to book an appointment?
Booking an appointment is easy. You can book online through our online booking system.
If you would like to discuss anything further or would like to book with our reception team, you can call them on +44 207 353 5678 or email us at info@fleetstreetclinic.com
