🛡️ Protect Yourself with the Prevnar 20 Pneumonia Vaccine – Now Available at CityMed Pharmacies!

CityMed Pharmacies in White Rock and Surrey are pleased to offer the Prevnar 20 (PCV20) pneumonia vaccine—free of charge to eligible patients under BC’s publicly funded immunization program.

Pneumococcal disease can lead to serious infections such as pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections. Vaccination is a powerful way to protect your health, especially if you’re older or have a medical condition.

📍 CityMed Pharmacy Locations

White Rock Location
📍 Unit 4 – 1493 Foster St, White Rock, BC V4B 0C4
📞 (604) 385-1490

Surrey Location
📍 Unit 107 – 14818 60 Ave, Surrey, BC V3S 0C5
📞 (604) 593-8866

💉 Who Is Eligible for a Free Prevnar 20 (PCV20) Vaccine?

According to the BCCDC Immunization Manual and Fraser Health guidance:

✅ Publicly Funded for:

• Adults aged 65+ with high-risk medical conditions, such as:

  • Immunocompromised (e.g., cancer treatment, HIV)

  • Chronic heart, lung, liver, or kidney disease

  • Diabetes or cystic fibrosis

  • Sickle cell disease or non-functioning spleen

  • Neurological conditions affecting swallowing

  • Active cancer or organ transplant recipients

  • Residents in care homes or with unstable housing/substance use

• Adults under 65 with certain medical risk factors (as defined in BCCDC guidelines)

🚫 Not Eligible for Free PCV20 (Must Pay Privately):

• Healthy adults aged 65+ who have previously received any of the following:

  • PCV20 (Prevnar 20)

  • PCV21 (Capvaxive)

  • PPV23 (Pneumovax 23)

Even if you received PPV23 over a year ago, publicly funded PCV20 is not available if you are otherwise healthy.

📎 Eligibility is strictly based on the BCCDC Pneumococcal Vaccine Guidelines

🧠 What Makes Prevnar 20 Special?

Prevnar 20 (PCV20) is a conjugate vaccine that protects against 20 strains of pneumococcal bacteria—more than any previous vaccine.

It provides:

• Broader protection than older vaccines like Prevnar 13 or Pneumovax 23

• A stronger, longer-lasting immune response

• Greater safety and coverage for seniors and at-risk individuals

💵 What If I’m Not Eligible for Free PCV20?

The private cost is $128 per dose. Most private insurance plans cover all or part of the cost. Our team will help verify your coverage.

🗓️ How to Get Your Vaccine at CityMed

Getting vaccinated is simple and convenient:

1. Walk in or call us to book your appointment

2. Bring your BC Services Card or CareCard

3. Wear a short-sleeved shirt and arrive 10 minutes early

💡 You can also combine your PCV20 appointment with other vaccines like the flu shot, shingles, or COVID-19 vaccine!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do all seniors 65+ get PCV20 free?
A: No. Only those with certain medical conditions or immunocompromised status qualify. Healthy seniors 65+ who’ve received PPV23, PCV20, or PCV21 are not eligible.

Q: I got Pneumovax 23 before. Can I get Prevnar 20 free now?
A: Only if you meet high-risk criteria. Healthy individuals who already got PPV23 are not eligible for public funding of PCV20.

Q: Can I get PCV20 with my flu or COVID-19 shot?
A: Yes, you can receive them together, just not PPV23 and PCV20 on the same day.

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Minor ones like:

• Sore arm

• Mild fever or fatigue
  These go away in 1–2 days.

📚 Why Vaccination Matters

Pneumonia and other pneumococcal infections are more dangerous in older adults and people with health issues. PCV20 reduces:

• Hospital visits

• Serious illness

• Life-threatening infections

The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) and BCCDC recommend PCV20 for:

• Seniors with medical risks

• Immunocompromised adults

• Adults with chronic diseases

✅ Key Takeaways

📞 Book Your Appointment Today!

📍 White Rock:
☎️ (604) 385-1490
📧 rx@citymedhealth.ca

📍 Surrey:
☎️ (604) 593-8866
📧 rx@citymedhealth.ca

🔗 BCCDC PCV20 Guidelines