PCV15

PCV15, or pneumococcal conjugate vaccine 15-valent, is a vaccine designed to protect against diseases caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. It covers 15 serotypes selected to address disease burden and is part of pneumococcal vaccination programs aiming to prevent invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) and pneumonia.

Mechanism: As a conjugate vaccine, PCV15 links polysaccharide capsules from the included serotypes to a carrier protein. This conjugation converts the response to a T-cell dependent one, improving immunogenicity in infants and young children and helping establish immune memory.

Administration and use: The exact indications, dosing, and schedules for PCV15 depend on regulatory approvals in each country. In some regions it has been adopted into routine pediatric immunization schedules; in others it is offered to certain adult populations or as a replacement or supplement to older pneumococcal vaccines. Co-administration with other vaccines follows local guidelines.

Development and regulatory status: PCV15 represents an effort to broaden protection beyond PCV13. Development programs include phase I–III trials assessing safety and immunogenicity. Regulatory status varies by jurisdiction, with some authorities approving PCV15 for specific age groups or as part of sequential vaccination strategies, and others ongoing with evaluations.

Advantages and considerations: Potential benefits include protection against additional serotypes and reduced carriage of those serotypes. Real-world effectiveness depends on circulating serotypes, vaccination coverage, and program design. Safety profiles are generally consistent with other pneumococcal conjugate vaccines, with common reactions such as injection-site pain, fever, and irritability.

See also: Pneumococcal disease, Pneumococcal vaccine, PCV13, PCV20, Prevnar.