Pneumococcal disease — caused by the Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria — can lead to serious infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infection. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent these illnesses, especially in older adults and people with certain chronic conditions.

The PCV20 vaccine, also known as Prevenar 20, is a newer pneumococcal conjugate vaccine that provides expanded protection against more strains of pneumococcal bacteria. It builds on earlier vaccines, offering broader defence with a single dose.

What Is the PCV20 (Prevenar 20) Vaccine?

Prevenar 20 is a 20‑valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, meaning it protects against 20 different strains (serotypes) of the pneumococcal bacteria that can cause serious infections. Compared with earlier vaccines like PCV13, Prevenar 20 covers additional serotypes responsible for these infections.

Unlike older vaccines that used polysaccharide components alone, Prevenar 20 uses a conjugate design that helps the immune system recognise and remember the bacteria more effectively — boosting long‑term protection.

Who Should Consider Prevenar 20?

Prevenar 20 is recommended for adults who are at increased risk of serious pneumococcal disease, including:

• Adults 65 years and older
  
  

• Adults aged 18–64 with chronic conditions or weakened immunity such as such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease and chronic liver or kidney disease
  
  

• Individuals with cochlear implants or weakened immune systems

In Singapore, Prevenar 20 has been approved for use and is included in the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) from 1 September 2025 for eligible adults, offering a more comprehensive pneumococcal protection option.

How Prevenar 20 Works

Prevenar 20 trains your immune system to recognise and defend against pneumococcal bacteria. A single injection helps the body produce targeted antibodies that can rapidly respond if exposure to the bacteria occurs.

Most vaccine reactions are mild and short‑lived, such as slight redness or soreness at the injection site or low‑grade fever.

Benefits of Prevenar 20 Vaccination

• Broader strain coverage: Protects against more strains than older conjugate vaccines.
  
  

• Single‑dose simplicity: One dose is typically sufficient for adult protection under NAIS guidance.
  
  

• Prevents serious illness: Reduces the risk of pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
  
  

• Supports public health: Widespread vaccination lowers overall disease burden in the community.
  
  

Comparison Table: Prevenar 20 vs Other Pneumococcal Vaccines

Note: Conjugate vaccines (PCV13, PCV20) produce longer-lasting immunity and immune memory compared with polysaccharide vaccines like PPSV23.

Healthier SG–enrolled individuals aged 65 and above OR Adults with specified health conditions	PCV13	$0 / dose
	PCV20	$0 / dose
	PPSV23	$0 / dose
Pioneer Generation	PCV13	$16 / dose
	PCV20	$17 / dose
	PPSV23	$11 / dose
Merdeka Generation	PCV13	$31 / dose
	PCV20	$34 / dose
	PPSV23	$22 / dose
CHAS Blue / Orange, Singaporeans aged 18 to 64 with certain medical conditions	PCV13	$31 / dose
	PCV20	$34 / dose
	PPSV23	$22 / dose
CHAS Green / Non-CHAS	PCV13	$63 / dose
	PCV20	$68 / dose
	PPSV23	$43 / dose
All Others / Walk-in	PCV13	$136.25 / dose
	PCV20	$147.15 / dose
	PPSV23	$93.74 / dose

PCV20 at District Family Clinics

We provide the PCV20 pneumococcal vaccine (Prevenar 20) for adults seeking proactive protection against serious pneumococcal disease.

👉 Book a consultation to discuss your individual risk factors and whether Prevenar 20 vaccination is right for you.

Sources:

• https://www.healthhub.sg/medication-devices-and-treatment/medications/pneumococcal-vaccine

• https://vaccine.gov.sg/pneumococcal

• https://www.cda.gov.sg/news-and-events/new-vaccines-against-shingles-and-pneumococcal-disease-added-to-national-adult-immunisation-schedule/

• https://www.mims.com/singapore/drug/info/prevenar-20?type=full

• https://www.rafflesmedicalgroup.com/health-resources/health-articles/staying-protected-with-the-pneumococcal-vaccine/

Vetted by Dr Zhao Runfeng