For which patient population is the pneumococcal vaccine PPSV23 indicated?

The pneumococcal vaccine PPSV23 is specifically indicated for adults aged 65 years and older due to their increased risk of pneumococcal diseases, which can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, and sepsis. This age group typically has a weakened immune response and higher incidence of chronic diseases, making them more vulnerable to infections. The vaccine helps provide protection against various strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae, reinforcing the immune system's ability to combat these pathogens.

While children under 2 years old, adults aged 30-50 years, and pregnant women may also receive vaccinations or have specific recommendations, PPSV23 does not target these populations in the same manner as it does for those aged 65 and over. For instance, younger children typically receive a different formulation of the pneumococcal vaccine (PCV13), and various recommendations exist for pregnant women that may differ based on individual risk factors. Therefore, the primary focus of PPSV23 is on older adults who are most susceptible to the severe outcomes of pneumococcal infections.