U.S. Pharmacist Vaccine Update

January 2020

Pneumonia Vaccine Series No Longer Recommended for Most Older Adults
Most adults aged 65 years and older are no longer recommended to receive a series of pneumonia vaccines. While all should receive a dose of 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23), the recommendation for PCV13 has changed. Pharmacists can read on to find out why, and which patients might be exceptions.

New Research Calculates Incidence Rate of HZ, Complication Risks
Advancing age appears to be an important factor in whether herpes zoster (HZ) results in hospitalization or even death, according to a new study. Researchers determined that the HZ incidence rate was 9.92/1,000 person-years and that the proportion of cutaneous, neurologic, and other complications was 6.40%. Here are more details.

Cost Issues Keep More Pharmacies, Clinics From Stocking Adult Vaccines
If pharmacists do not have certain adult vaccines available, they cannot administer them. A new study looked at the factors affecting whether pharmacies and physicians’ offices stocked specific adult vaccines and determined that financial considerations had a major effect. Here is more information.

Connect With U.S. Pharmacist