PREVENAR 13 INJECTION

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• PREVENAR 13 INJECTION is a vaccine designed to help your body protect itself against certain types of bacteria. Specifically, it targets 13 different kinds of Streptococcus pneumoniae, often called pneumococcus. These bacteria are a common cause of serious, sometimes life-threatening infections.
• When you receive the PREVENAR 13 INJECTION, it works by gently introducing tiny, inactive parts of these pneumococcal bacteria to your immune system. This doesn't cause the illness, but it's like a practice drill. Your immune system learns to recognize these specific bacteria. In response to this 'training,' your body produces special protective proteins called antibodies. These antibodies circulate in your bloodstream. If you later encounter the actual pneumococcal bacteria that PREVENAR 13 INJECTION protects against, your immune system, already familiar with them, can quickly mount a strong defence. This rapid response helps prevent severe diseases caused by these bacteria, such as pneumonia (a lung infection), meningitis (an infection of the brain and spinal cord lining), and bacteraemia (a blood infection). Essentially, PREVENAR 13 INJECTION gives your immune system the knowledge and tools it needs to fight off these particular germs effectively before they can cause serious harm.

• Getting the PREVENAR 13 INJECTION is a simple process handled by a trained medical professional. This vaccine is given as an injection directly into a muscle or placed deeply under the skin. It's very important *not* to try and give yourself this injection. A doctor or nurse will administer it safely. They will also determine the right amount (dosage) and how often you need it. This decision depends entirely on your individual health situation and what your doctor thinks is best for you.
• Usually, most healthy people only need one dose of the PREVENAR 13 INJECTION to get protection. After the first injection, a second dose is typically not given for at least three years, if at all. However, some people are at a higher risk of getting serious infections caused by pneumococcal bacteria. This includes individuals who don't have a spleen or whose spleen isn't working correctly, as well as those with certain long-term health problems like chronic heart disease, lung disease, kidney problems, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. For these individuals, your doctor might recommend a second dose sooner or at a different interval to make sure you have the best possible protection. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific advice regarding your vaccination schedule.