Immunization Status of the 23-Valent Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine among Elderly Aged 65 and Older in South Korea

Abstract

The 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) was introduced as part of Korea's national immunization program (NIP) in May 2013 for people aged 65 years and older. We aimed to describe the immunization status of Korean elderly aged 65 years and older who had received a first dose of PPSV23 via the NIP and to analyze the cumulative PPSV23 vaccination coverage rates. A descriptive study was conducted using the Korea Immunization Registry Information System. The study included adults aged 65 years and older who received at least one dose of PPSV23 between May 1, 2013, and December 31, 2020. During the study period, 6,705,624 elderly individuals received PPSV23, with 198,236 receiving it concurrently with other vaccines on the same day, most commonly with the influenza vaccine (n=175,118, 88.3%). Although the cumulative PPSV23 vaccination coverage rates for people aged 65 years and older have been steadily increasing, instances of non-adherence to the minimum intervals between pneumococcal vaccines have been observed. Therefore, education and promotion programs aimed at healthcare providers and the general public are needed to increase awareness. Furthermore, ongoing research on PPSV23 vaccination status for individuals aged 65 years and older and people at high risk for pneumococcal infection should be conducted.