Pneumococcal Disease

On Oct.13, 2000, the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health began offering a new vaccine that can help reduce pneumococcal disease among children ages 2 months to 5 years. The pneumococcal conjugate vaccine is referred to commonly as Prevnar (TM) or PCV7.

Pneumococcal disease is a serious disease that causes about 200 deaths each year among children age 5 and under, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Children under age 2 are at the highest risk for serious disease. Also, it is the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in the United States. Each year, pneumococcal disease causes many health problems in children under age 5. They include:

Prevnar is optional, but it is highly recommended, especially for any child that is in a group day care setting because they are more susceptible to getting ear infections and Prevnar can reduce the number of ear infections for children 3 years and under. Children can even have Prevnar up to kindergarten level.

Pneumococcal infections can be difficult to treat because the disease has become resistant to some of the drugs that have been used to treat it. This makes prevention of the disease even more important.

Who should get Prevnar?

All healthy children and toddlers should get four doses of Prevnar vaccine:
One dose at 2 months; 4 months; 6 months and one at 12-15 months. If a child does not begin to receive Prevnar until after 6 months of age, fewer doses are needed. Check at our immunization clinic for a schedule.

Pneumococcal Vaccine Information   - CDC Website

Pneumococcal Fact Sheet

How much do vaccines cost?

Your child may be eligible for free vaccine. If you are not sure if your child is covered under the Vaccine for Children program, or you would like to make an appointment, call the Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health at (641) 421-9321.  

What vaccines do children need?
Read the CDC's 2007 Recommended Childhood Immunization Schedule

Page updated 2/07                                                                             back to top

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If we can assist you in any way, please contact our Disease Prevention staff at (641) 421-9321.