PCV20

PCV20, the 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, is a vaccine designed to prevent disease caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. It is marketed as Prevnar 20 and was developed by Pfizer. The vaccine contains polysaccharide antigens from 20 pneumococcal serotypes that are chemically linked to a protein carrier, typically CRM197, to enhance the immune response through T-cell help.

Clinical use and administration: In the United States, PCV20 is licensed for adults 18 years and older to prevent invasive pneumococcal disease and pneumococcal pneumonia caused by the serotypes included in the vaccine. It is used as part of vaccination strategies for adults, with regimens that may vary depending on local guidelines and prior pneumococcal vaccination history. The vaccine is given as a single intramuscular injection, typically in the deltoid muscle.

Effectiveness and safety: PCV20 elicits immune responses against all 20 serotypes it covers. Real-world effectiveness continues to be evaluated as use expands. Common adverse events are generally mild to moderate and include pain at the injection site, fatigue, fever, and muscle aches. Serious adverse events are rare.

Regulatory status and context: PCV20 is one of several pneumococcal vaccines used to reduce pneumococcal disease and is part of broader vaccination programs that also include other pneumococcal conjugate vaccines and polysaccharide vaccines. Its use and recommendations can vary by country and over time as guidelines update with new evidence.

See also: Pneumococcal disease, Pneumococcal vaccination, Prevnar series.