Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine Available Brands: Complete 2025 Guide

Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine Available Brands

Introduction

One of the most effective ways to protect against these infections is through the Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine (PPSV23). In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know — including the top available brands, recommended age groups, and where to get vaccinated in Bangladesh.

Pneumococcal infections are one of the leading causes of pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections worldwide. Every year, thousands of adults and seniors lose their lives to pneumococcal disease — a tragedy that can be prevented through timely vaccination.

This post is your trusted resource to understand how PPSV23 protects you and which Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine brands are most reliable and approved globally.

What Is the Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine?

The Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine (PPSV23) is designed to protect against 23 different strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, the bacteria responsible for serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis.

Unlike conjugate vaccines, PPSV23 uses purified polysaccharides (sugar molecules) from the outer coating of the bacteria to trigger the body’s immune system.

Key Highlights:

• Covers 23 serotypes responsible for most invasive pneumococcal diseases.

• Commonly known as Pneumovax 23 in global markets.

• Recommended mainly for adults aged 65 and older or individuals with chronic health conditions.

This vaccine doesn’t contain live bacteria and is safe for people with compromised immune systems when administered under medical supervision.

Why the Vaccine Matters

Pneumococcal infections can cause life-threatening complications, particularly among older adults or people with weakened immunity. Vaccination helps:

• Reduce hospitalizations due to pneumonia and meningitis.

• Lower the risk of antibiotic resistance.

• Prevent serious infections that could lead to death or disability.

Studies show that the PPSV23 vaccine prevents up to 80% of severe pneumococcal infections in healthy adults.

How Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine Works

The vaccine introduces purified polysaccharide antigens (from the bacterial capsule) into the body. These antigens stimulate an immune response, encouraging the body to produce protective antibodies.

When the actual bacteria enter the body later, the immune system recognizes and neutralizes it quickly.

Since PPSV23 is not a conjugate vaccine, it doesn’t induce long-term memory in children under 2 years, which is why it’s primarily used for adults and high-risk individuals.

Types of Pneumococcal Vaccines

There are two main types of pneumococcal vaccines available:

Conjugate vaccines help build long-term immunity, while polysaccharide vaccines offer broader short-term protection against multiple serotypes.

Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine Available Brands

Here’s a look at the leading global and locally available brands of polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccines:

1. Pneumovax 23® (Merck & Co., USA)

The most popular and widely used 23-valent polysaccharide vaccine worldwide.
It protects against 23 pneumococcal serotypes, responsible for about 90% of adult pneumococcal infections.

Features:

• Licensed by WHO and CDC-approved.

• Single-dose administration (0.5 mL).

• Can be given subcutaneously or intramuscularly.

• Widely available through authorized medical distributors.

Availability in Bangladesh:
Pneumovax 23 is available through Pledge To Protect BD, hospitals, and specialized vaccine centers.

2. Pneumo 23® (Sanofi Pasteur, France)

Another highly trusted 23-valent polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine.
It offers the same coverage as Pneumovax 23 but is manufactured by Sanofi Pasteur.

Key Points:

• Provides protection against the same 23 serotypes.

• Suitable for adults aged 65+ and high-risk individuals.

• WHO-prequalified and globally recognized.

Storage: 2°C to 8°C (never frozen).

3. Pneumocap 23® (Serum Institute of India)

A cost-effective and WHO-prequalified alternative to Pneumovax 23.
It’s widely used across Asia and Africa due to its affordability and high efficacy.

Highlights:

• Covers the same 23 serotypes.

• High-quality manufacturing by Serum Institute of India.

• Commonly recommended for adults and high-risk individuals.

Benefit: Provides strong immunogenicity at a lower cost — an excellent option for low- and middle-income countries like Bangladesh.

4. Pnu-Imune 23® (Lederle Laboratories, USA)

Although less commonly available today, Pnu-Imune 23 is another 23-valent vaccine that has shown proven efficacy and safety.

Key Points:

• Provides broad protection for adults and seniors.

• Administered as a single 0.5 mL dose.

• Historically used in U.S. immunization programs before Pneumovax 23 became dominant.

Comparison Table

Who Should Get the Vaccine

The Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine (PPSV23) is recommended for:

1. Adults aged 65 and above

Older adults are at a higher risk of severe pneumonia and bloodstream infections.

2. Adults aged 19–64 with chronic conditions

Those suffering from:

• Diabetes

• Chronic heart or lung disease

• Liver disease

• Alcohol dependency

• Asthma or COPD

3. People with weakened immune systems

Including patients with:

• HIV/AIDS

• Cancer

• Kidney disease

• Post-organ transplant

4. Long-term care facility residents

People living in nursing homes or assisted living centers are also at higher risk.

Dosage and Schedule

• Dose: One injection (0.5 mL).

• Route: Intramuscular (IM) or subcutaneous (SC).

• Booster: May be required after 5 years for high-risk groups.

• Interval: When combined with PCV13, give PPSV23 one year later for maximum coverage.

Always consult a healthcare professional before taking any booster dose.

Side Effects and Safety

The PPSV23 vaccine is safe and well-tolerated by most people. Common mild side effects include:

• Pain or redness at the injection site

• Fatigue or mild fever

• Muscle soreness

• Mild swelling

Rare side effects:

• Severe allergic reaction (extremely rare)

• Dizziness or nausea

If you experience severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Pneumococcal Disease in Bangladesh

Bangladesh faces a significant burden of pneumococcal infections, especially among older adults and people with chronic diseases.
Recent data suggests:

• Pneumonia accounts for a large portion of adult hospitalizations.

• Pneumococcal infections contribute to respiratory deaths in both children and elderly adults.

Increasing vaccination coverage with PPSV23 can reduce these risks and promote better public health outcomes.

Where to Get the Vaccine in Bangladesh

You can safely receive the Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine from Pledge To Protect BD, a trusted vaccine distributor.

Pledge To Protect BD offers:

• Genuine, cold-chain maintained vaccines.

• Expert consultation for individuals and families.

• Nationwide distribution and hospital partnerships.

👉 Order your Pneumococcal Vaccine Today! Visit Pledge To Protect BD or call +880 1844-245339 for consultation.

Expert Insights

“For adults with chronic diseases, the polysaccharide pneumococcal vaccine provides essential protection against life-threatening infections. Combining it with PCV13 ensures full coverage.”
— Dr. Mahbub Hasan, Consultant, Respiratory Medicine, Dhaka Medical College Hospital

Myths vs. Facts

FAQs

1. What is the difference between PCV and PPSV?

PCV (conjugate) vaccines work for all ages, while PPSV (polysaccharide) vaccines primarily protect adults against 23 pneumococcal strains.

2. Can PPSV23 be taken with other vaccines?

Yes, but in separate arms or at least one inch apart if administered together.

3. How long does the protection last?

Protection generally lasts between 5–10 years.

4. Is PPSV23 safe during pregnancy?

It’s typically recommended only for high-risk pregnant women, under medical guidance.

5. Where can I buy Pneumovax 23 in Bangladesh?

Available through Pledge To Protect BD and authorized medical suppliers.

Final Thoughts

The Polysaccharide Pneumococcal Vaccine (PPSV23) remains one of the most important tools in adult immunization programs. With trusted brands like Pneumovax 23, Pneumo 23, and Pneumocap 23, you can easily access protection from severe pneumonia and meningitis.

💡 Prevention is better than cure — one vaccine can save a lifetime.

Ready to get vaccinated?
Contact Pledge To Protect BD today for expert guidance and vaccine delivery.

Contact Information

Pledge To Protect BD
📍 Address: Nasir Trade Centre [NTC], Level 9 & 14, 89 Bir Uttam CR Datta Road, Banglamotor (Sonargaon Road), Dhaka, Bangladesh, 120.
📞 Hotline: +880 9611900875
📱 Phone: +880 1844-245339
📧 Email: abdulaziz@hpl.com.bd
🌐 Website: Pledge To Protect BD
📍 Google Map Direction

👉 Order the Vaccine Directly From Our Website: Pledge To Protect BD