Streptococcus Pneumoniae Type 20 Capsular Polysaccharide Antigen
Streptococcus pneumoniae Type 20 capsular polysaccharide antigen is a vaccine component derived from the outer coating of a specific pneumococcal serotype. It is used in pneumococcal vaccine formulations to provide targeted immunity against infections caused by serotype 20, one of the bacteria responsible for serious respiratory and invasive diseases.
A vaccine antigen that induces protective immunity against Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 20 to prevent pneumococcal pneumonia and related infections.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 854952
- Generic
- Streptococcus Pneumoniae Type 20 Capsular Polysaccharide Antigen
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- Pneumovax 23
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- prefilled syringe, injection, solution
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease, pneumonia, meningitis, and bacteremia caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae serotype 20. Included as part of multivalent pneumococcal polysaccharide or conjugate vaccines for appropriate age groups.
The purified capsular polysaccharide antigen stimulates B lymphocytes to produce type-specific antibodies. These antibodies recognize the polysaccharide capsule of serotype 20 pneumococci, enabling immune clearance of the bacteria upon exposure.
Administered as a component within licensed pneumococcal vaccines by healthcare professionals. Common mild reactions include injection site soreness or low-grade fever. Contraindications and specific scheduling follow national immunization guidelines and individual patient risk assessments.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 31, 2026. · Read our editorial policy