Both the PCV and PPSV vaccines are safe. As with any medicine, there's always the possibility of a serious problem, such as an allergic reaction. But the risk of serious harm or death is very small.

Unlike the Conjugate pneumococcal vaccine (PCV), the PPSV vaccine is made with the Polysaccharide (sugars) of the pneumococcal bacteria. It is primarily recommended for the age group of 65 and older.

Cost of very high intensity program (per elder per year) $17.84 >$23.65 n/a b PPSV vaccination rate ... 72.7% >73.5% a Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine. b Maximum variation in these parameters ...