Q: Is it safe to switch between the PCV13 and PCV15 pneumococcal vaccines for my child?

This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

Question:

My child is scheduled for their pneumococcal vaccine. Is it okay to switch between the 13-valent and 15-valent versions during the vaccination series?

Answer:

Yes, cross-vaccination between the 13-valent (PCV13) and 15-valent (PCV15) pneumococcal vaccines is possible.

✅ Key Points

• Both vaccines are of the same type (conjugate vaccines), with PCV15 being an updated version that adds two serotypes to the coverage of PCV13.

• Health authorities like the U.S. CDC and the Korean Pediatric Society both permit the interchangeability of these vaccines.

• If your child has already started the series with PCV13 → It is both safe and effective to complete the remaining doses with PCV15.

Vaccination Schedule Information

• The standard primary schedule consists of a total of four doses, typically given at 2, 4, 6, and 12-15 months of age.

• The availability of PCV13 versus PCV15 can vary by clinic depending on their current stock, so you may want to confirm with them before your appointment.

Precautions

• It is important to adhere to the recommended interval between doses (a minimum of 4-8 weeks).

• If your child has a history of fever or allergic reactions to previous vaccinations, please inform the doctor before the shot is administered.

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Rest assured that interchanging these vaccines is not a problem, so you can proceed with your child's vaccination schedule. Please let us know if you have any more questions

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

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