Boroondara Health
& Wellness Centre

Pneumococcal Vaccination

From July 2026, a new pneumococcal vaccine, Capvaxive® (21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, 21vPCV), has been added to the National Immunisation Program (NIP). It replaces the previously used 13vPCV and the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (Pneumovax 23 / 23vPPV) for adults. Pneumovax 23 is no longer recommended for children or adults.

Who is now eligible for a FREE vaccine?
  • Adults aged 65 years and over (previously 70 years)
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults aged 25 years and over (previously 50 years
  • Adults aged 18 years and over with specified medical conditions that increase the risk of severe pneumococcal disease, including — for the first time — those with COPD

These changes expand eligibility to more than 1.8 million additional Australians.

Previously vaccinated patients

Eligible adults who have already received a pneumococcal vaccine can receive Capvaxive® at least 12 months after their last dose.

Why the change?

Conjugate vaccines like Capvaxive® provide stronger, longer-lasting protection than polysaccharide vaccines. The new schedule is also significantly simpler, enabling clearer conversations between clinicians and patients about eligibility and timing.

Further information on Pneumococcal vaccines can be found on the Australian Centre for Disease Control website and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website.

Patients seeking further information on the pneumococcal vaccine can be directed to the following trusted Australian resources:

  • Australian Immunisation Handbook — the national clinical reference, which includes detailed information on eligibility, scheduling, catch-up doses, and risk conditions. Available at: www.immunisationhandbook.health.gov.au
  • NCIRS (National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance) — provides a patient-friendly FAQ sheet on pneumococcal vaccines in Australia, including information on who should be vaccinated, catch-up schedules, and why the vaccine has changed. Available at: www.ncirs.org.au
  • Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care — for NIP eligibility, schedule information, and consumer fact sheets. Available at: www.health.gov.au
  • Speaking with our clinic team — patients are encouraged to ask their GP or practice nurse whether they are eligible and whether they are up to date with their pneumococcal vaccination at their next visit.