PCV13 Reduced Risk for Viral Respiratory Infection in Adults

Evidence indicates that Streptococcus pneumoniae interacts with viruses to cause respiratory disease, suggesting that interventions targeting pneumococci may offer ancillary benefit by preventing virally attributed disease. In 2014, the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) was approved by the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices (ACIP) for individuals aged ≥65 and those aged 19–64 with certain underlying medical conditions or risk factors. In 2021, the ACIP recommended the 20-valent product (PCV20) for these same groups. To examine if PCV13 use in adults is associated with reduced risk for viral respiratory infections, researchers at Kaiser Permanente Southern California conducted a manufacturer-sponsored study from 201…