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

After a splenectomy, it is particularly important to provide appropriate vaccinations to protect against encapsulated organisms, as the spleen plays a critical role in filtering bacteria and mounting an immune response. Pneumococcal vaccines are specifically important in this scenario because they can protect against pneumococcal infections, which are a significant risk for individuals without a functioning spleen.

PPSV23, or Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine, is recommended for individuals 2 years of age and older, particularly for those who are at increased risk such as following splenectomy. This vaccine provides protection against 23 strains of pneumococcal bacteria that cause serious infections like pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia.

While PCV13 also offers protection but is typically given to younger children as part of their routine immunization schedule, it is not the primary recommendation specifically for splenectomy patients. The focus on PPSV23 is due to its broader strain coverage and suitability for older children and adults who can mount a response to polysaccharide vaccines.

Additionally, recommendations can involve the use of PPV23 not only alone but in combination with other vaccines such as PCV (conjugated vaccines like PCV13 or PCV15