Protecting Adults 50 and Over: Why the Prevnar 20 Vaccine Is Now Recommended Even If You’ve Been Vaccinated Before

Pneumococcal disease, caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumoniae, remains a leading cause of serious illness and hospitalization—especially in older adults. The infection can result in pneumonia, bloodstream infections (bacteremia), and meningitis, often with severe consequences.

For years, pneumococcal vaccination recommendations focused on adults 65 and older. However, updated CDC guidelines now recommend the Prevnar 20 (PCV20) vaccine for all adults aged 50 and over, even if they have previously received pneumococcal vaccines like Prevnar 13 or PPSV23.

Why the Change from 65 to 50?

The CDC revised its guidelines based on newer data showing that:

• Adults aged 50–64 with no underlying conditions are still at risk for invasive pneumococcal disease.

• Immunity from previous pneumococcal vaccines wanes over time, leaving older adults vulnerable again.

• Prevnar 20 protects against more strains—including several that have become more prevalent and resistant.

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These shifts in infection trends and emerging vaccine technology prompted public health experts to lower the age threshold, prioritizing prevention earlier.

What Is Prevnar 20?

Prevnar 20 is the latest-generation pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, offering protection against 20 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae—the most comprehensive coverage to date. It builds on previous versions:

• Prevnar 13 protected against 13 strains.

• PPSV23 covered 23 strains but didn’t provide as strong long-term immunity.

• Prevnar 20 combines the best features of both—broad protection with longer-lasting immune response.

This makes Prevnar 20 the preferred single-dose vaccine for adults seeking comprehensive pneumococcal protection.

Pneumococcal Disease in the U.S.: A Persistent Threat

Despite available vaccines, pneumococcal disease remains a serious issue:

• 900,000 cases of pneumococcal pneumonia occur annually in the U.S.

• 150,000+ hospitalizations result from these infections each year.

• The fatality rate in older adults can reach 20% in cases of bacteremia or meningitis.

Adults over 50—particularly those with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, COPD, or weakened immune systems—are among the most vulnerable.

I Already Got a Pneumonia Shot. Do I Still Need Prevnar 20?

In most cases, yes.

Even if you received PPSV23 or Prevnar 13, you may not be protected against newer or emerging strains. Immunity also fades over time.

Prevnar 20 offers broader and more durable protection. For many, it's a one-time catch-up vaccine that simplifies the prior two-shot series (Prevnar 13 followed by PPSV23).

Speak with your doctor to confirm your prior vaccine history and determine your eligibility for PCV20.

Key Benefits of Prevnar 20

✅ One dose only for most adults✅ Protects against 20 strains of pneumococcus✅ Approved for adults 18+, but now recommended for everyone 50 and older✅ Helps prevent serious infections and hospitalizations✅ Ideal for those with chronic conditions or previous pneumonia

Who Should Receive Prevnar 20?

• Adults 50 years or older

• Anyone with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, or cancer

• Adults with weakened immune systems

• Smokers or those with a history of frequent respiratory infections

• Individuals who received prior pneumococcal vaccines more than 5 years ago

  
  

Why Get Vaccinated at Beverly Hills Institute?

At Beverly Hills Institute, we prioritize preventive health and offer personalized, concierge-level care. We:

• Review your vaccine history and eligibility

• Administer Prevnar 20 in-office

• Coordinate follow-up care and insurance coverage

• Monitor for rare side effects or reactions

  
  

Take the Next Step

Protect your future health today. Pneumococcal infections are unpredictable—but preventable.

📞 Call us at (310) 274-0657

📍 Schedule a visit at Beverly Hills Institute

🌐 www.bhinstitute.com