A child is vaccinated with the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13). Why is a conjugate vaccine used in young children rather than the pol...

Question

A child is vaccinated with the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13). Why is a conjugate vaccine used in young children rather than the polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)?

Accepted Answer

Polysaccharide vaccines elicit T-independent B-cell responses that are poorly immunogenic in children under 2; conjugate vaccines recruit T-cell help for a more robust and durable immune response

Answer

Conjugate vaccines are cheaper

Answer

Conjugate vaccines cover more serotypes

Answer

Polysaccharide vaccines cause more side effects

Answer

There is no difference in immunogenicity

Conjugate vs Polysaccharide Vaccine (Immunology) — MRCPCH TAS MCQ

A child is vaccinated with the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13). Why is a conjugate vaccine used in young children rather than the polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23)?