What are pneumococcal vaccines?
Pneumococcal vaccines protect against infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae, a bacteria that can lead to pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections.
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. Both Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive are available at Rock Ridge Pharmacy.
Walk-ins Welcome
No appointment required
Insurance Accepted
Most major plans, including Medicare
Pharmacist Care
Guidance you can trust
Prevnar 20 vs Capvaxive
Both vaccines protect against serious pneumococcal disease. Here’s a clear comparison of what sets them apart.
Prevnar 20
- Coverage: 20 serotypes
- Who: Adults 65+ & high-risk 19–64
- Dosing: One-time dose if not vaccinated
- History: Established, widely available
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.
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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.
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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.
Side Effects & Safety
Most side effects are mild and temporary. Click each section to expand.
Most side effects are mild and short-lived, resolving within a few days. Severe reactions are very uncommon, and our pharmacists are fully prepared to assist if needed.
Protection starts with prevention
Pneumococcal Vaccines — Prevnar 20 & Capvaxive
At Rock Ridge Pharmacy, our pharmacists offer Pneumococcal vaccinations to help protect against pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. The CDC recommends pneumococcal vaccination for adults 65+ and for younger adults with certain chronic conditions or risk factors.
What to Expect
A simple four-step vaccination process
1. Book or Walk In
Quick online booking or same-day walk-in.
2. Check In
Bring your ID and insurance card.
3. Get Vaccinated
Administered by a licensed pharmacist.
4. Observation
Stay 15 minutes to ensure safety.
Pneumococcal Vaccines (Prevnar 20 & Capvaxive)
Protect against pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Recommended for adults 65+ and certain younger adults with chronic conditions or risk factors. Available now at Rock Ridge Pharmacy: Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vaccines are available?
Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive are the two FDA-approved pneumococcal vaccines recommended for adults.
Who should get pneumococcal vaccination?
Adults 65 years and older, and younger adults with chronic conditions such as heart, lung, liver disease, or diabetes should be vaccinated.
What is the difference between Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive?
Prevnar 20 protects against 20 pneumococcal strains, while Capvaxive targets 21 strains, including 8 unique types affecting adults.
How many doses are needed?
Most adults only need a single dose of either Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive. No booster is required unless advised by your provider.
Can I receive both Prevnar 20 and Capvaxive?
No. You only need one pneumococcal conjugate vaccine—either Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive—depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
Can it be given with other vaccines?
Yes, pneumococcal vaccines can be administered alongside flu or COVID-19 vaccines. Ask your pharmacist for guidance.
What are the common side effects?
Mild pain or redness at the injection site, fatigue, headache, or low-grade fever. These effects usually resolve in a few days.
Who should not get the vaccine?
Individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to pneumococcal vaccines or their ingredients should avoid vaccination.
Is it safe for people with chronic illnesses?
Yes. It’s especially important for those with chronic heart, lung, or immune conditions to receive pneumococcal protection.
How long does protection last?
Protection is long-lasting after a single dose, with ongoing studies monitoring duration and need for boosters.
Is the vaccine covered by insurance?
Yes. Most insurance plans, including Medicare Part B, cover pneumococcal vaccination at no cost to the patient.
When is the best time to get vaccinated?
Any time of year is suitable, though pairing it with your annual flu vaccination visit is convenient.
Does Rock Ridge Pharmacy accept walk-ins?
Yes. You can walk in during pharmacy hours or schedule online for same-day pneumococcal vaccination.
Where can I view the official CDC Pneumococcal VIS?
View the official statement here: CDC Pneumococcal VIS.
Explore More Vaccine Options
Ready to Protect Against Pneumococcal Disease?
Book online today or visit Rock Ridge Pharmacy for your Prevnar 20 or Capvaxive vaccination. Walk-ins are welcome, and most insurance plans are accepted.