Pneumococcal vaccine 20-valent (Apexxnar)
Contents of the vaccine:
The vaccine contains conjugated capsular polysaccharide from 20 different pneumococcal serotypes.
Who should take the vaccine?
People aged 18 years and older who are at increased risk of frequent or severe pneumococcal infections.
The vaccine is used to prevent diseases caused by infection with pneumococcal bacteria, including pneumonia, septicemia and meningitis. For further recommendations for vaccination of adults, see Persons at particularly increased risk of invasive pneumococcal disease.
Vaccination dose:
Apexxnar should be administered as a single dose to individuals aged 18 years and over.
The vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including influenza vaccines, but in separate syringes and at different injection sites.
The vaccine is given intramuscularly in the upper arm (m. deltoideus).
When the vaccine is to be administered, it should be shaken vigorously until the contents of the syringe are a homogeneous, white suspension.
Store in a refrigerator (2°C to 8°C). Pre-filled syringes should be stored horizontally in a refrigerator to minimize resuspension time.
Who should not be vaccinated?
In case of acute illness accompanied by fever, vaccination should be postponed.
People with severe allergies to one or more of the ingredients, e.g. Polysorbate 80 or diphtheria toxoid.
If in doubt, please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
The vaccine should not be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless clearly necessary, as experience is lacking. Please consult your doctor.
Most common side effects:
Redness, swelling and tenderness at the injection site, headache, fatigue, joint and muscle pain and fever.
Duration of protection:
The need for revaccination with a subsequent dose of Apexxnar has not been established.
State Serum Institute (2023), https://www.ssi.dk/vaccinationer/vaccineleksikon/p/pneumokokvaccine-13-valent-apexxnar