Administered as a single 0.5 mL dose intramuscularly (IM) or subcutaneously (SC). The preferred site for IM injection is the deltoid muscle. Do not inject intravenously.

Pneumovax 23 works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the capsular polysaccharides of 23 specific serotypes of *Streptococcus pneumoniae*. These antibodies help protect against infection by these bacteria.

• •Known hypersensitivity to any component of the vaccine, or a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of any pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine.
• •Acute febrile illness or active infection; vaccination should be postponed until recovery.

Store refrigerated between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Discard if frozen. Protect from light.

Overdose is unlikely with a single-dose vaccine. In case of accidental administration of a higher dose, monitor for increased local or systemic reactions and manage symptoms as appropriate.

Pregnancy Category C. Use only if clearly needed and potential benefits outweigh risks. Consult physician. It is not known whether this vaccine is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administering to a nursing mother.