Top 5 Takeaways

1. New Vaccine Recommendations: The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) now recommends the use of either the 15-valent PCV (PCV15) or the 20-valent PCV (PCV20) for adults aged ≥65 years and those aged 19–64 years with certain underlying conditions.
2. Vaccination Simplification: The new recommendations simplify the pneumococcal vaccination process, allowing eligible adults to receive either PCV15 in series with PPSV23 or PCV20 alone.
3. Immunogenicity and Safety: Studies have shown that both PCV15 and PCV20 are immunogenic and safe, with comparable responses to the previously recommended PCV13 and PPSV23.
4. Cost-Effectiveness: Economic models indicate that the new vaccination strategies are cost-effective, with PCV20 alone or PCV15 in series with PPSV23 being cost-saving for adults aged ≥65 years.
5. Implementation and Monitoring: CDC and ACIP will continue to monitor the safety and effectiveness of PCV15 and PCV20, updating recommendations as necessary.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

Miwako Kobayashi, mkobayashi@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Kobayashi M, Farrar JL, Gierke R, et al. Use of 15-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine and 20-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Among U.S. Adults: Updated Recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices — United States, 2022. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:109–117. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7104a1

Summary

This article discusses updated recommendations by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) for the use of the 15-valent and 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV15 and PCV20) among U.S. adults. The new guidelines recommend PCV15 or PCV20 for adults aged ≥65 years and those aged 19–64 years with specific underlying conditions. These recommendations aim to simplify the vaccination process and improve coverage.

Methods

The ACIP employed the Evidence to Recommendation (EtR) framework and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach to assess the immunogenicity, safety, and cost-effectiveness of PCV15 and PCV20. The Work Group reviewed scientific evidence, including systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials, and economic models, to guide their recommendations.

Discussion

The ACIP’s updated recommendations are based on studies showing that PCV15 and PCV20 are immunogenic and safe, with comparable responses to the previously recommended PCV13 and PPSV23. The new guidelines simplify the vaccination process, making it easier for healthcare providers to administer and for patients to follow. The cost-effectiveness of these new strategies further supports their implementation.

Conclusion

The updated recommendations for PCV15 and PCV20 are expected to reduce the incidence of pneumococcal disease among adults, particularly those aged ≥65 years and those aged 19–64 years with certain underlying conditions. The simplified vaccination process and demonstrated cost-effectiveness are anticipated to improve vaccine coverage and public health outcomes.

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