Pneumococcal Vaccines (Prevnar 20 & Capvaxive)

Protect yourself against serious pneumococcal illnesses such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for adults 65+ and certain younger adults with chronic conditions or risk factors. Rock Ridge Pharmacy offers both Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive.

BOOK ONLINE NOW

Walk-ins Welcome

No appointment required

Insurance Accepted

Most plans, incl. Medicare

Pharmacist Care

Expert guidance & safety

Convenient Scheduling

Quick online booking

Prevnar 20 vs Capvaxive

Both vaccines protect against serious pneumococcal disease. Here’s a clear comparison of what sets them apart.

Prevnar 20 vaccine packaging

Prevnar 20

  • Coverage: 20 serotypes
  • Who: Adults 65+ & high-risk 19–64
  • Dosing: One-time dose if not vaccinated
  • History: Established, widely available
Capvaxive vaccine packaging

Capvaxive

  • Coverage: 21 serotypes (includes extra strains)
  • Who: Adults 65+ & high-risk 19–64
  • Dosing: One-time dose if not vaccinated
  • Highlight: Broader coverage for today’s adults

Our pharmacists will guide you in choosing the right option based on your health and vaccination history.

Pneumococcal protection made simple

Eligibility & Timing

Adults 65+

Ages 19–64 w/ chronic conditions

Weakened immunity or risk factors

When to Get Vaccinated

As soon as eligible

Don’t delay if you meet CDC criteria.

Before flu & winter season

Best to vaccinate in early fall if possible.

Even later is valuable

Vaccination at any time still protects.

Science made simple

How the Vaccine Works

Step 1: Vaccine Design

Made with safe pieces of the bacteria’s outer shell + protein carrier.

Step 2: Immune Training

Your immune system learns to recognize pneumococcal bacteria.

Step 3: Antibody Protection

Antibodies are built to fight infection if you’re exposed later.

Step 4: Long-Term Defense

Immune memory helps protect against pneumonia & serious illness.

Pneumococcal vaccines do not contain live bacteria and provide safe, lasting protection against multiple strains.

Protect yourself from flu and pneumonia

Why Pair Flu & Pneumococcal Vaccines?

Flu shots help each year — but pneumococcal vaccines give added, long-term protection against pneumonia and serious complications. Together, they provide the strongest defense.

September–October

Best time for your annual flu vaccine to reduce seasonal risk.

1
2

Same Visit, Double Protection

Pair your pneumococcal vaccine (Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive) with the flu shot for convenience.

Winter Season

If you miss fall, flu shots remain beneficial later.

3
4

Year-Round Shield

Pneumococcal vaccines aren’t seasonal — a single dose helps protect for years against pneumonia.

Don’t stop at the flu shot — add pneumococcal protection for the strongest defense.

Pneumococcal Vaccines (Prevnar 20 & Capvaxive)

Protect yourself against serious pneumococcal disease, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Available now at Rock Ridge Pharmacy.

Side Effects & Safety

Most side effects are mild and short-lived. Click to expand details.

  • Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
  • Tiredness or mild fatigue
  • Muscle or joint aches
  • Headache
  • Mild fever or chills
  • Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis – extremely rare)
  • Fainting shortly after vaccination (more common in sensitive individuals)
  • Pharmacists are trained to provide immediate emergency care

Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few days. Severe reactions are very uncommon, and our pharmacists are prepared to respond immediately if needed.

Why Choose Rock Ridge Pharmacy?

Trusted Local Care

Serving Glen Rock & Bergen County with care.

Licensed Pharmacists

Vaccines administered under expert supervision.

Easy Online Booking

Fast scheduling with instant confirmation.

Family-Friendly

Appointments available for all ages.

What to Expect

Book online or walk in anytime

Bring ID & insurance card

Vaccine administered by pharmacist

15-minute observation period

BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Pneumococcal vaccines (Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive) are administered in accordance with FDA and CDC guidelines. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive?
They are the latest pneumococcal conjugate vaccines recommended by the CDC. Prevnar 20 protects against 20 strains, while Capvaxive protects against 21 strains including additional serotypes.

How many doses are required?
Most adults need just one dose of Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive. Your pharmacist will advise if you need additional pneumococcal vaccines based on your health history.

Can I get this vaccine with others (like flu or shingles)?
Yes. Pneumococcal vaccines may be given at the same time as flu, shingles, or other vaccines at different injection sites.

Who should get pneumococcal vaccination?
All adults 65+, and adults 19–64 with certain chronic conditions or risk factors, should be vaccinated according to CDC guidelines.

Can I book my pneumococcal vaccine online at Rock Ridge Pharmacy?
Yes. Book easily through our secure online system to reserve your spot.

Does Rock Ridge Pharmacy accept walk-ins?
Yes, when doses are available. Online booking guarantees availability.

What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring your photo ID and insurance card. Your CDC vaccination card is helpful but not required.

How long will my appointment take?
Most visits take 15–20 minutes, including observation time after your shot.

Is the pneumococcal vaccine covered by insurance?
Yes. Most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, cover pneumococcal vaccines at no cost to eligible adults.

Do I need a prescription?
No prescription is needed. Our pharmacists can administer the vaccine under standing orders.

Are these vaccines recommended for children?
Yes. Pneumococcal vaccines are part of the routine childhood schedule, but Rock Ridge Pharmacy provides vaccination for adults. Parents should consult their pediatrician for children’s doses.

What are the common side effects?
Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, tiredness, mild fever, muscle aches, or headache.

Are serious side effects common?
No. Severe allergic reactions are very rare, and pharmacists are trained to respond immediately if they occur.

How effective are these vaccines?
Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive provide strong protection against invasive pneumococcal disease, including pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.

How long does protection last?
Protection is long-lasting. Most adults will not need another pneumococcal conjugate vaccine after receiving Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive.