Pfizer launches PCV20 in India to protect adults against pneumococcal disease

New Delhi: Pfizer has launched its next-generation 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV20) for adults in India. With broader serotype coverage, Pfizer’s vaccine marks a significant advancement in protection against pneumococcal disease in adults.

Pfizer’s vaccine helps protect against clinically relevant 20 serotypes responsible for a majority of invasive and non-invasive pneumococcal disease. It enables timely and proactive protection for all adults, including those living with chronic conditions. PCV20 will be available as a single shot vaccine and those vaccinated with PCV20 may not need a second dose.

Meenakshi Nevatia, Managing Director, Pfizer Ltd., India, said, “We are excited to launch PCV20, our 20-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, in India. We believe this vaccine, with its broad coverage of 20 pneumococcal disease serotypes, will address the increasing need for adult immunization in our country.”

Adults over 50 years of age, as well as individuals with comorbidities such as asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), chronic kidney disease, and diabetes, face a higher risk of developing pneumococcal infections, which can result in complications, hospitalization, and even death.

Timely immunization is critical to reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and mortality caused by pneumococcal disease. Vaccination with PCVs are considered one of the most effective public health tools for reducing the burden of pneumococcal disease.