2023 changes

Prevenar13 (PCV13) provides broader protection than Synflorix (PCV10)

There has been an increase in pneumococcal serotype 19A notifications in New Zealand, as a result, PHARMAC has decided to fund access to Prevenar13 (PCV13), which protects against three additional serotypes (3,6A and 19A) that are not covered by Synflorix (PCV10).

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If parents request PCV13

It is recommended that children have PCV13 to provide protection against the 19A serotype. This serotype was not covered by the PCV10 vaccine that was previously on the schedule until December 2022. 

19A is currently a predominant serotype in NZ and causing a significant burden. All children are now being given PCV13 as part of their routine vaccinations at ages 6 weeks, 5 months and 12 months, but it is not currently funded for those who have previously been fully vaccinated with PCV10 (2+1 or 3+1 depending on age), unless they have significant medical conditions that make them eligible for an extra vaccination.

Parents of children aged under 5 years can choose to purchase PCV13 as a private market vaccine and if they can, are encouraged to do so. While this is a rare disease for any one individual, it can be very severe. Offering a single dose will provide some extra protection.

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Timing and doses

PCV13 should be administered at:

·      6 weeks (all)

·      3 months (high risk only)

·      5 months (all)

·      12 months (all). 

If started with PCV10, continue course with PCV13

If PCV10 has been given at 6-week and/or 5 month milestone, the next pneumococcal vaccination/s would be PCV13 instead of PCV10. 

PCV10 full course, no catch up of additional PCV13 at this stage

Children who were previously vaccinated with a full course of PCV10 do not need PCV13. However, PHARMAC is seeking further clinical advice on a proposal for a catch-up programme. 

Tāmariki aged under 5 years may be eligible for catch up of PCV13

If a course of PCV10 has not been completed, children under 5 years will be eligible for catch up doses. Consult with 0800 IMMUNE or refer to Appendix 2 of Immunisation Handbook for information on appropriate catch-up doses.

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High risk vaccinee

Criteria for high risk remain the same

There is no change to the criteria used to confirm who is deemed to be at ‘high risk’ of pneumococcal disease (see the PHARMAC schedule). Those who meet the criteria should have included the extra primary course dose administered at 3 months of age. Thus, they receive 4 doses in total (3+1 schedule).

23PPV only follows for high risk

It is important for all of those who are considered to be ‘high risk’ of pneumococcal disease continue to receive their 23PPV from aged 2 years.

Catch-up for PCV13 Immunisation

Please see the table below for reference.

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Schedule