What vaccine should be recommended for a child after a splenectomy?

Following a splenectomy, it is important to provide the appropriate vaccinations to children since they are at increased risk for infections, particularly from encapsulated bacteria. The pneumococcal vaccines, in particular, play a critical role in protecting this vulnerable population.

Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 23 (PPSV23) is specifically indicated for patients at higher risk of invasive pneumococcal disease, including those who have had their spleen removed. This vaccine covers a broader range of pneumococcal serotypes, making it essential for those without a functional spleen, as they lack the ability to clear these bacteria effectively.

While PCV20 and PCV13 are also important pneumococcal vaccines, they are generally more effective for younger children and those receiving routine vaccination. PCV15 is a newer vaccine that may also be considered in certain scenarios, but for a child post-splenectomy, PPSV23 is critical as it enhances the immune response to serotypes associated with severe disease.

It's noteworthy that although both PCV13 and PPSV23 are important in the context of immunizations, PPSV23 has a more direct recommendation following splenectomy due to its specific application for at-risk populations. Therefore