Prevnar 13 is the brand name of the pneumococcal 13-valent conjugate vaccine. It immunizes the body against the pneumococcal bacteria that cause fatal diseases by infecting lungs, brain, blood, and ears. Due to potential Prevnar 13 side effects, one must consult the doctor before its use. The side effects of this vaccine vary according to age, and health conditions of the patient.
Prevnar 13 Side Effects and Uses
The common use of the Prevnar 13 vaccine is to immunize the body against pneumonia a chronic disease that primarily affects the lungs. The vaccine contains thirteen types of pneumococcal bacteria. Injecting of vaccine into muscles of the upper arm exposes the body to bacterial protein. Consequently, the body prepares required antibodies to fight the bacteria. Anti-bodies that the human body makes as a result of Prevnar 13 vaccine injections are enough to resist any future attack by pneumococcal bacteria types that are present in it. One should keep in mind that vaccination doesn’t cure body against pneumonia caused by microorganisms, other than those present in the vaccine.
Prevnar Thirteen Vaccine Use
Children should receive four dozes Prevnar 13 vaccine in series from six weeks through five years. Adults who are more than 50 years old should receive only one dose of vaccine.
Prevnar-13 Side Effects
Prevnar 13 side effects can be mild to chronic. They can be temporary as well as permanent. It all depends upon the health condition of a person. Patients who are already on medication for curing other diseases must consult the doctor before using p13.
One must act upon few of the universal precautions to prevent the Prevnar 13 side effects.
Here are the common Prevnar 13 Side Effects in Adults
- Muscle Fatigue
- Joint Pain
- Rashes on Skin
- Decrease in Appetite
- A headache
- Drowsiness
- Feeling of Nausea
- Reaction at injection site
- Disturbance in sleep cycle
- Low-grade fever up to 102 degrees.
Prevnar 13 Side Effects in Children
Parents need to monitor their kids more cautiously. Prevnar 13 side effects in children can be more severe and might need an emergency medical help.
Here are the common side effects that PVC13 can show up in children.
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Feeling of drowsiness
- Crying
- Irritability
- Disturbance of Sleep
Serious Side Effects of Prevnar in Children
Parents should immediately consult the doctors if their kids develop following Prevnar 13 side effects.
- Seizures
- Trouble in breathing
- Severe pain in stomach, along with vomiting and diarrhea
- Irritation, itches, and changes in skin
- Bleeding and bruising to mild stimulants
(Credit – sxdatou)
When to Not Use this ?
One should not use PVC13, in combination with treatments like chemotherapy, radiations, and steroids. Further, the vaccine should not be used with medicines to prevent organ transplant rejection and those to treat the autoimmune disorders and rheumatoid arthritis. As a precautionary measure, patients who are using any medication must consult their physician before receiving this vaccine.