Massachusetts Citizens for Vaccination Choice

Pneumococcal disease is a bacterial infection that can cause serious illness, including inflammation of the brain, blood infections and pneumonia. Most children and adults harbor pneumoccocal organisms in their noses and throats. It is not clear why some individuals will go on to develop severe pneumococcal disease and others do not, although those with weakened immune systems are at risk.

There are currently two pneumococcal vaccines in use in Massachusetts. Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine 7-Valent (PCV7) is being recommended (though not required) by the DPH for all children from 2-23 months of age and older children in certain high risk groups. Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine 23-Valent (PPV23) is being recommended for all people 65 and over and others in high risk groups.

For further information on the pneumococcal vaccine being recommended for children (PCV7), visit the National Vaccine Information Center’s pneumococcal webpage.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health site also has information on the two vaccines at:
Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine 7-Valent (PCV7) and
Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine 23-Valent (PPV23).