Big News for Little Spleens: New Pneumococcal Vaccine Guidelines for Kids
Starting 1 September 2025, Australia’s National Immunisation Program (NIP) has introduced updated guidelines for protecting children against pneumococcal disease – a serious infection that can affect the lungs, blood, and brain. This new vaccine is called Prevenar 20®. It is fully funded under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
What’s Changed?
Prevenar 20 has officially replaced previous Pneumococcal vaccines Prevenar 13 and Pneumovax 23 for children under 18. This new vaccine offers protection against 20 different strains of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae.
What Does This Mean for Your Child?
From September 1st, 2025, all children due to receive an immunisation for pneumococcal disease will now receive Prevenar20 which has replaced Prevenar13 and Pneumovax23.
Why It Matters
Children living without a functioning spleen are especially vulnerable to pneumococcal infections. These can escalate quickly and become life-threatening. Prevenar 20’s broader coverage means better protection for these kids and peace of mind for their families.
What Should Parents Do?
- Check your child’s immunisation record.
- Talk to your GP or immunisation nurse about whether your child requires the Prevenar 20 vaccine.
- Stay informed—these changes are designed to make protection simpler and stronger.
- Contact Spleen Australia for an updated report if concerned.