pneumococcal vaccine, an active immunizing agent containing antigens of the 23 types of Pneumococcus associated with more than 98% of the cases of pneumococcal pneumonia in the United States and Europe. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for persons over 2 years of age who are at high risk of development of severe pneumococcal pneumonia, all adults over 65 years of age, and immunocompromised adults. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy, early childhood (less than 2 years of age), or known hypersensitivity to the vaccine prohibits its use. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are inflammation at the site of injection, fever, and hypersensitivity.
